Considered as the feminine epitome of strength, Durga is depicted in a variety of Vedic literature as a goddess having feminine prowess, power, determination, wisdom. When the three Supreme Gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva were unable to overcome the demon Mahishasura, they decided to combine their powers and created Durga. Embodying their collective energy (shakti), she is both derivative from the male divinities and the true source of their inner power. The ten arms of the deity symbolize that she protects her devotees from all directions namely the eight corners and from the sky and the earth. The ten hands of Goddess Durga hold in them a conch, discus, lotus, sword, bow with arrow, trishul, mace, thunderbolt, snake and flame. The lion of Mother Durga is a symbol of “Dharma”. It represents power, will and determination. Mother Durga riding the lion symbolizes her mastery over all these qualities.
