MAHISASURAMARDINI

 Mahisasuramardini is one of the most popular forms of Devi or Durga. One can see plenty of stone statues of Devi in Mahisasuramardini form, scattered in and around Kathmandu valley. Some of them are so beautifully carved that they just seem to be breathtaking. The oldest and most lively piece is that of Palnachokey Bhagawati which is said to be built around early 6th century A. D. It is in Mahisasruamardini form that she is worshipped during the entire celebration of Dasain. There is a very interesting story about how Devi was invoked for killing Mahisasura, the most powerful buffalo headed demon king. 

Once there broke out a big battle between gods and demons. The battle continued for 100 long years until the demon king Mahisasura vanquished all the gods and became himself the overlord of all the three worlds. The defeated gods grew jealous of his power and position. They all went to the Trinity and asked for help to dethrone the demon king. They were assured help. Goddesses Durga was immediately created out of the trinity powers. She challenged Mahisasura to face her in the battle-field. The result was a big war. Many demons were killed. Mahisasura became furious. He stormed himself across Devi and destroyed  many of her weapons. She could not bear this insult any longer. She roared out like a lioness and jumped quickly upon the demon and cut off his head. But it is said that another head peeped out from the same trunk. She beheaded that one too. Anguishing thus the entire devil forces, Devi brought about delight for all gods  and ensured peace in heaven and earth alike. Since then Devi was given the name “Mahisasruamardini” meaning the killer of the demon King Mahisasura.

It was on the Dasami Day (10th day of the Dasain festival) that Devi killed Mahisasura. The day is, therefore, called a day of Victory or Vijayadasmi, a perfect day for seeking blessings from Devi and of course from senior members of the family too. 

The whole episode of dasain celebration centers round Shakti worship or the respect of women power which also demonstrates  core culture of Nepal.  Shakti denotes a woman, a wife and a mother, all three in one. A divine mother is shakti in herself. We, therefore call Mahisasuramardini a great shakti or a great goddess Durga, the supreme power or universal mother.