Sumanohar Kantiyute

The story of Mahishasura Mardini is about the goddess Durga's defeat of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The story is often told during Durga Puja and is a central part of Shaktism, a Hindu cult that worships Shakti, the feminine power.

The story

Mahishasura was a half-man, half-buffalo demon who terrorized the gods and people.

The gods created Durga from their collective powers to defeat Mahishasura.

Durga was armed with weapons from the gods, including Shiva's trident, Vishnu's chakra, and Brahma's kamandalu.

Durga fought Mahishasura in a fierce battle that lasted for days.

Mahishasura changed forms throughout the battle, including a buffalo, lion, elephant, and a man.

Durga finally killed Mahishasura by stabbing him with her trident while he was in his buffalo form.

The significance

The story of Mahishasura Mardini symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

The legendary Hindu philosopher, Adi Shankaracharya, composed the revered hymn - The Mahishasura Mardini Stotra. This divine composition comprises 21 verses, each dedicated to Goddess Durga, extolling her divine glory and her valorous triumph over the demon Mahishasura. The verses are filled with profound devotion and vivid imagery that conjure the powerful and awe-inspiring presence of the goddess.

Verse 11 (Sumanohar Kantiyute)- Beauty and Charm: Goddess Durga's beauty is extolled in this verse. Her face, radiant as the moon, outshines the loveliness of celestial maidens. Her enchanting eyes are said to captivate even the bees. The verse ends with a reverent plea for victory.

Watercolor on cotton paper 12x12 in.

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