Durga Puja, the festival of victory

Durga Puja, the festival of victory over bad is the worship of 'Shakti' or the divine power. Most of the religious celebrations in the world have legends surrounding them. The stories are generally the fight between the evil and the good. Worship of Goddess Durga is based on myths where Durga symbolizes the divine power.

According to Hindu mythology a demon named Mahishasura, earned the favor of Lord Bramha after a long and hard penance. Lord Bramha, impressed with his devotion, blessed him that no man would be able to kill him and that only a woman can kill him. Mahishasura was very pleased with this boon as he thought that a woman can never defeat him. Arrogant Mahishasura started his reign of terror over the universe and people were killed mercilessly. He even attacked the place of the gods and conquered the heavens and became their leader.

After their defeat and humiliation at the hands of Mahishasura, the gods took refuge under Lord Brahma, who took them to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. In answer, the three Gods combined their divine energy and create up a feminine form so brilliantly that it would kill the devil.

The beautiful Durga, equipped with the fearsome weaponry of the gods, was ready to engage in battle with the fierce and cruel Mahishasura. Mahishasura and his demon allies found their attention drawn from heaven to Earth, as Durga's power moved its way towards heaven.

A fierce battle took place. Finally when Mahishasura in the in the form of a buffalo charged against Durga, the Devi beheaded the buffalo and from it emerge Mahishasura in his original form. Durga pierced his chest with the trident and relieved the world from the evil power. That is why she is 'Durgatinashini Durga', our mother goddess who destroys the evil, protects her devotees and establishes peace and prosperity on earth.

For this reason Durga Puja is celebrated with lots of functions and celebrations. During, it people visit different temples of Durga and worship the god sacrificing animals. This festival longs for ten days. The last day of the festival is called Dassehra, also known as Vijayadashmi.
Dassehra day is considered a most auspicious day. It is a time-honored belief that if any new venture is started on this day, it is bound to be successful. Hence, all the undertakings be it laying-in of foundation of a new building, opening of a new commercial establishment or even initiating a child into the world of learning are started on this day. Also on this day implements of agriculture, manufacturer's machines, the children's school books are placed before the idol of Durga and worshiped.