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Maa Durga is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, embodying the divine feminine energy or Shakti. She is often depicted as a powerful and benevolent goddess who embodies strength, courage, and protection. Here’s a comprehensive description:**1. Divine Nature**: Durga represents the ultimate force of cosmic energy, encompassing both creation and destruction. She is considered a principal manifestation of Shakti, the divine feminine power.**2. Iconography**: Durga is typically depicted with ten arms, each holding different weapons such as a trident (trishul), sword, bow and arrow, conch shell, and discus. These symbolize her ability to combat and overcome all forms of evil.**3. Mount**: She rides a lion or tiger, representing her dominance over power and her ability to confront and defeat formidable foes. The lion or tiger symbolizes strength and courage.**4. Appearance**: Durga is often shown wearing a rich, elaborate sari, usually in vibrant colors like red or gold, which signifies her divine and royal status. She is adorned with ornate jewelry and a crown.**5. Facial Expression**: Her expression combines serenity with fierce determination, reflecting her role as both a nurturing and a warrior goddess. This duality highlights her protective nature.**6. Third Eye**: Sometimes depicted with a third eye on her forehead, Durga’s third eye signifies her ability to see beyond ordinary perception and her capacity for insight and wisdom.**7. Symbolism**: Durga’s multiple arms and weapons represent her ability to protect her devotees from all directions and adversities. Her lion or tiger mount symbolizes her control over animal instincts and her mastery of power.**8. Festivals**: The most prominent festival dedicated to her is Durga Puja, celebrated with great fervor, especially in West Bengal and other parts of India. This festival marks her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura and is a time of elaborate rituals, prayers, and cultural performances.**9. Role in Mythology**: Durga is best known for her role in the battle against Mahishasura, a demon who had terrorized the gods and humans. Her victory over him represents the triumph of good over evil.**10. Worship**: Devotees seek her blessings for strength, protection, and the removal of obstacles. She is worshipped with great devotion through prayers, rituals, and offerings.Maa Durga's depiction as a fierce yet compassionate deity illustrates her multifaceted nature as a protector, warrior, and nurturer, making her a central figure in Hindu worship and mythology.