The Human Cohesion Project — 8 Oct 2024

On this sixth day of Navaratri, we invoke Katyayani, a fierce and powerful warrior goddess. Known for her ability to vanquish demons and protect righteousness, she is often seen as a fearsome aspect of Durga. In mythology, Katyayani was born from the collective energies of the gods to defeat the buffalo demon (metaphorical, of course), Mahishasura, who symbolised arrogance and oppression. Armed with the weapons of the gods and riding a lion, she reminds us that sometimes, fierce action is necessary to restore balance and justice in the world.

Today also marks the beginning of Durga Puja in eastern India, a festival celebrating the goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura. As the rituals and celebrations unfold, they echo Katyayani’s story: the battle between light and darkness, good and evil, and the ultimate restoration of dharma. Durga Puja brings the communal celebration of the divine feminine to life, reminding us of the power of collective strength and unity in the face of adversity.

As we celebrate the fierce power of Katyayani, the world around offers plenty of reflections of conflict and struggle. Wars continue to scar planet, with no end in sight. Katyayani’s battle with Mahishasura feels strikingly relevant: a reminder that unchecked arrogance, greed, and oppression must be confronted, not only by force but with collective will and righteous action. Just as the gods united to channel their energies into creating Katyayani, we too must unite as a global community to address the deep-rooted causes of conflict, injustice, and suffering.

Katyayani’s energy calls us to stand up for what is right, to harness the warrior within, and to act decisively in the face of oppression. But she also reminds us that such action must come from a place of integrity and a desire for peace, not mere retribution. As a goddess who both protects and destroys, she teaches us the delicate balance between strength and compassion — a balance that is urgently needed in today’s world.

Shubh Navaratri and Shubho Durga Puja. May Katyayani’s fierce grace inspire us to act with courage and wisdom as we confront the challenges of our time.

#RukminiIyer #ExultSolutions #peacebuilding #Navaratri #religion #TheHumanCohesionProject #interfaith