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How Lion Became Maa Durga's Vahan: Maa Durga, the goddess of protection and strength, is depicted riding a lion. Ever wonder, though, why and how the lion was selected as her divine vahan (vehicle)? It has a profoundly meaningful and captivating backstory. Each goddess or god in Hinduism has a vahan, which symbolises their attributes, abilities and place in the cosmos. Maa Durga views the lion as more than just an animal she rides; it is a representation of her bravery, courage, and capacity to vanquish evil.

As the king of the jungle, the lion represents strength and courage. By choosing the lion as her vahan, Maa Durga makes a powerful statement: good always triumphs over evil. The relationship between Maa Durga and her lion has been characterised as divine in both ancient texts and popular legends. Let's examine the mythological tale of how the lion came to be her dependable friend and the meaning it continues to have today.

How Lion Becomes the Vahan Of Maa Durga: The Battle Against Mahishasura

One of the most important stories connected to Maa Durga’s lion vahan is the battle with Mahishasura, the demon king. Half buffalo and half human, Mahishasura possessed abilities that made him nearly unbeatable. The gods were forced to seek assistance as a result of his terrorising the earth and heavens.

To protect the world, the gods combined their energies and created Maa Durga. Each god gifted her with weapons and divine powers. Along with these, god Himavat (the Himalayas), father of Mata Parvati, gave her a mighty lion to ride into battle. With the lion as her vahan, Maa Durga fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights. On the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra, she finally killed him.

 

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Another Mythological Story Of Maa Durga's Vahan Lion

According to another popular legend, the story behind Maa Durga’s lion becoming her vahan is linked to Mata Parvati’s penance. When Mata Parvati was performing meditation to attain Lord Shiva, her complexion became dark. One day, Lord Shiva jokingly called her “Kali,” which upset her. To regain her fair complexion, Mata Parvati began intense penance once again.

During this time, a hungry lion approached her with the desire to eat her. But upon seeing her radiant and serene form, the lion simply sat there and kept waiting. When Mata Parvati finished her penance and opened her eyes, she noticed that the lion had remained seated patiently throughout her meditation. Deeply moved, she requested Lord Shiva to make this lion her divine vahan. Pleased by her request, Lord Shiva granted her this boon.

From that moment, Maa Parvati became known as Sherawali Mata (the Goddess who rides the lion), and she was also revered as Durga.

Spiritual Significance of Maa Durga’s Lion

The lion also has a spiritual message for devotees. It reminds us that:

* We should face life’s difficulties with courage.

* Inner strength and self-control can help us win any battle.

* Just as Maa Durga rides her lion with grace, we must control our inner weaknesses and use our energy positively.

 

ALSO READ: 50+ Divine And Unique Names Inspired By Maa Durga For Your Baby Girl

In addition to being a work of myth, the tale of Maa Durga and her lion vahan also serves as a life lesson. The lion represents strength, tenacity, and bravery and is more than just a vehicle. Every time we see Maa Durga riding her lion, we are reminded that, with faith and courage, we can always overcome any obstacle.