Devi
Mariamman and her auspicious feminity are exalted in this beautiful
brass statue by providing her with the supplest physique, which is
accentuated by the ornaments that adorn her form. Mariamman wears her
characteristic crown, which is surrounded by a five-hooded serpent and flames
(the emblem of Chidagni, or the fire of consciousness). The magnificent mother,
who protects her children from all the evil in the world with her loving smile
and holy weapons, smiles benevolently, animating this icon with her presence.
Embodiment of Divine Power and Protection
This exquisite brass statue depicts a powerful South Indian goddess, a potent manifestation of divine feminine energy and protection. Standing at seven inches tall, this handmade artifact is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and deep spiritual reverence. The goddess is envisioned with a commanding presence, her form adorned with intricate details that speak of her immense power and grace. The rich, lustrous brass lends an aura of timelessness and sanctity to this sacred representation.
––––––––––Symbolism of the Serpent Hood
A striking feature of this sculpture is the magnificent multi-headed serpent hood that crowns the goddess. In many ancient cultures, serpents are revered as symbols of primordial energy, eternity, and cosmic wisdom. In the context of Hinduism, the Naga, or divine serpent, is often associated with Shiva, and its presence above the goddess signifies her supreme authority and her ability to control even the most potent forces of nature. The hooded cobra, in particular, is seen as a protector, its raised hood serving as a shield against evil and negativity, mirroring the goddess's role as a guardian of her devotees.
––––––––––Attributes of the Divine Warrior
The goddess is depicted holding various symbolic weapons in her multiple hands, each representing a different aspect of her divine power. The trident, or Trishul, is a formidable weapon associated with the destruction of ignorance and ego, as well as the ability to overcome the three gunas (qualities of nature). The sword signifies the power to cut through delusion and falsehood, bringing clarity and truth. These attributes underscore her role as a divine warrior who combats malevolence and upholds righteousness. Her posture suggests readiness and serene strength, embodying both formidable power and profound peace.
––––––––––The Essence of Mariamman
This depiction strongly resonates with the iconography of Mariamman, a prominent folk goddess widely worshipped in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Mariamman is revered as a mother goddess, the bestower of health, prosperity, and fertility, and a protector against disease and misfortune. She is often associated with the monsoon rains, which bring life and sustenance, and her worship involves vibrant rituals and festivals. This statue captures the essence of her benevolent yet fierce nature, a deity who offers solace and strength to her devotees, shielding them from suffering and bestowing blessings. The craftsmanship lovingly brings forth the divine feminine power that she embodies, making this piece a significant object of devotion and a beautiful work of 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.
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