DURGA

(Sanskrit: the Inaccessible), in Hindu mythology, one of the many forms of Sakti (the goddess), and the wife of Siva (Shiva). Her best-known feat was the slaying of the buffalo-demon Mahisasura. According to legend she was created for this purpose out of flames that issued from the mouths of Brahma, Vishnu, Siva, and the lesser gods. She was born fully grown and beautiful; nevertheless, she presents a fierce menacing form to her enemies. She is usually depicted in painting and sculpture riding a lion (sometimes shown as a tiger), with 8 or 10 arms, each holding the special weapon of one or another of the gods, who gave them to her for her battle against the buffalo-demon. The Durga-puja, held annually in SeptemberOctober, is one of the greatest festivals of northeastern India. A special image of the goddess is made that is worshiped for nine days, then immersed in water, all accomplished with large processions and much public and private festivity.