Stories of Hindu Goddess Durga (Illustrated)

Book excerpt: The basic dynamism of God has been defined in Indian philosophy as nature or Prakriti which is supposed to be Primeval Power that has been visualized from time immemorial as 'Adyashakti' by seers and thinkers.'Adyashakti' is again the integral active form of God keeping the entire cosmos in control while Her manifestation has been portrayed by the artists and sculptors of ancient India as the Supreme Goddess Mahamaya, the creative force of the Universe. That is why She is also known as Brahmani which is an epithet of Durga. The genesis of the concept of the Supreme Goddess Mahamaya is to be found in the prevailing faith of a great number of people on the supremacy of matriarchal culture. Mahamaya or Brahmani is also known as Durga, Chamunda, Chanda, Kali, Amba and Mahishasurmardini. These violent forms of Mahamaya denote her victory over the vicious and sinful elements. She is represented on these various violent forms as a slayer of demons and sinners. She is also represented as Maha Sarasvati, the great Goddess of learning and absolute Knowledge. She is as well represented as MahaLakshmi, the great Goddess of wealth, beauty and Bliss. Like the Triad of Brahma, the God of Creation, Vishnu the God of Protection and Mahesh the God of Destruction, Mahamaya also assumes the role of Creation, Protection and Destruction. Durga or MahaKali destroys the wicked while Maha Lakshmi and Maha Sarasvati uphold Virtue, spread enlightenment and grant power and prosperity while offering protection. In this volume we present select stories about Durga. The stories allegorically describe struggles between gods and demons and teach the human race to hope that eventually truth and justice prevail. The stories are designed for children and are accompanied with beautiful illustrations.