Riding
her ferocious tiger, Maa Sherawali- Devi Durga is presented in this brass
statue in her Ashtabhuja roopa, with a blissful aura around her. Devi Durga
sits relaxedly on the lion, facing her devotees, with her foot extended for
anyone seeking shelter in her. The great goddess is beautifully adorned and
wrapped in a saree, whose folds are presented with perfection in this handmade
icon.
Embodiment of Divine Power and Protection
This exquisite brass statue captures the formidable presence of Goddess Durga, the revered Hindu deity, in her iconic seated posture atop her majestic lion vahana. Handcrafted with meticulous detail in India, this artwork embodies centuries of spiritual devotion and artistic mastery. The lustrous brass lends a timeless aura to the deity, symbolizing purity, strength, and prosperity.
The Goddess Durga is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, widely revered as a warrior goddess who fights to restore dharma (cosmic order). She is often depicted with multiple arms, each holding a weapon or emblem symbolizing her various powers and attributes. In this representation, her serene yet powerful countenance radiates an aura of calm authority, while the dynamic form of the lion beneath her signifies her unyielding strength and courage. The lion, a symbol of royalty, power, and fearlessness, perfectly complements the goddess's divine might.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The image of Durga seated on a lion is a powerful visual metaphor for overcoming obstacles and conquering evil. Legends describe how the gods, unable to defeat the formidable demon Mahishasura, combined their energies to create Durga. Her victory over the demon signifies the triumph of good over evil, of righteousness over unrighteousness. This statue serves as a constant reminder of this profound spiritual truth. The lion represents the untamed forces of nature and the ego, which the divine feminine energy of Durga can master and channel for righteous purposes.
The artistic rendition showcases intricate details, from the delicate ornamentation on Durga's attire to the powerful musculature of the lion. The craftsmanship reflects the rich heritage of Indian metalwork, where such sculptures are not merely decorative objects but sacred conduits for divine blessings. Placing this statue in your home or sacred space is believed to invite protection, courage, and the dispelling of negativity. It is an emblem of feminine power, a source of inspiration, and a beautiful piece of devotional art.
A Sacred Artifact, A Timeless Treasure
This brass sculpture is more than just an object; it is an embodiment of faith and a testament to the enduring artistic traditions of India. The use of brass, a metal associated with auspiciousness and purity in Hindu traditions, enhances its spiritual significance. Each curve and contour has been shaped by skilled artisans, imbuing the statue with a sense of life and divine presence. The compact size makes it a versatile piece, suitable for altars, desks, or as a focal point in any room where you seek to cultivate an atmosphere of peace, strength, and spiritual connection. It makes a thoughtful and meaningful gift for anyone who cherishes Indian culture, Hindu spirituality, or appreciates the beauty of handcrafted art.
The Fierce and Powerful Goddess Durga: Discovering the Symbolism
and Significance
Goddess Durga is a revered deity in Hinduism and she is
worshiped by many people in the eastern part of India and also
in other countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh. She is
considered the mother of this material world who takes care of
the conditioned souls trapped in the material existence. She
protects them from the demons who threaten peace and establishes
Dharma. In the Shakta tradition or Shaktism (those who believe
that feminine energy is supreme), Mother Durga has been given
the highest position. She is often considered the expansion of
Mother Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva who is the destroyer
of the material world. The Vaishnavas consider Mother Durga as
the external energy of the Supreme Lord Krishna or Vishnu. She
takes charge of the material world and reforms those souls who
do not abide by the rules of the Supreme Lord.
Mother Durga is often depicted as a young and beautiful woman,
wearing a saree, and sitting on a tiger or lion. She has
multiple arms (usually ten arms) that hold different items and
weapons that express her martial skills. She tramples down the
demon Mahishasura, with her trident, representing the subduer of
vices.
What does Durga symbolize?
Being the powerful assistant of the Supreme Lord, Mother Durga
tests our dedication to the Lord. She represents the material
nature and like a loving mother, she gives a clarion call to all
forgetful souls to turn their faces towards Lord Krishna, who is
the only well-wisher of all living entities. The depiction of
her violently killing the demon Mahishasura with her trident
shows her extraordinary prowess. Mahishasura represents our
demoniac mentality that wants to enjoy separately from the
Supreme Lord, forgetting our eternal relationship with Him.
Goddess Durga killing the demon symbolizes the victory of good
over evil or wisdom over ignorance.
Where are Durga statues made in Kolkata?
The worship of Goddess Durga is prominent in festivals such as
Durga Puja, Durga Ashtami, Navaratri, etc. On those days, people
gather at a place and a big idol or deity of Goddess Durga is
worshiped with faith and devotion. These idols of the Goddess
are made in a place called Kumortuli, located near Kolkata, West
Bengal. This city is renowned for its beautiful clay sculptures
made by local manufacturers.
Can we keep Durga idol at home?
You can keep a Durga deity at your home if you want to attract
her mercy into your life. Goddess Durga is very merciful toward
her devotees and when pleased, she bestows them with both
material and spiritual benefits. Those who approach and worship
Goddess Durga with material desires in their hearts, she
fulfills them. But if a person genuinely approaches her and
prays to her to reveal about the Absolute Truth and the real
goal of human life to them, being the superintendent of the
Supreme Lord Vishnu, she blesses them with the light of
knowledge about the Lord and inspires them to walk the path of
devotion to Lord Vishnu.