We all celebrate Durga puja but hardly anyone knows the history or
origin behind the celebration. As in case of most of the Indian
festivals we have to refer to Hindu mythology to trace out the origin.
The festival of Durga puja comes with its own retinue of mythological
stories. There are various legends associated with its origin but the
most important and prevalent among them is the legend of Lord Rama (the
incarnation of Lord Vishnu). When lord Rama was fighting a battle with
Ravana (the demon king) to rescue his wife Sita whom Ravana abducted and
held as hostage in Lanka, his kingdom. That time a fierce battle ensued.
In that battle Ravana could not be defeated. So Lord Ram decided to seek
the blessings of Shakti (Goddess Durga) in order to defeat the demon.
For that puja, which lord Ram was performing 108 blue lotus were needed
for the worship of Goddess Durga but Rama could manage only 107. But
without that one lotus his puja would be incomplete so he was on the
verge of laying one of his eyes that was lotus-shaped and blue in color
at the Goddess's feet when Goddess Durga appeared and satisfied with his
devotion, granted her blessing and eventually he won the battle against
Ravana. The time he worshipped was Spring season so from that time
onwards Durga puja is celebrated.
Another legend, which is associated with the celebration of Durga puja
is the story of the defeat of the demon king, Mahishasura at the hands
of Goddess Durga, the incarnation of Shakti (the power). This demon was
almost invincible because of a boon granted by Lord Shiva whereby no
male could defeat him. So to find a solution to this all the God
amalgamated their power and gave birth to Shakti (the power) in the form
of Goddess Durga. She defeated the demon king and killed him. That's why
she is called Mahishasuramardini (the slayer of Mahishasura). The holy
battle symbolizes the victory of Good over Evil. However, according to
another legend about Durga, she was a manifestation of Parvati, Shiva's
wife.
