Durga Marble Murtis

Durga as the protective mother

Durga is worshipped as the divine mother and as the power that overcomes evil. Her worship is especially important during Navratri and Durga Puja, and many families keep a Durga murti in the home mandir throughout the year. In North India she is often addressed as Ambe Maa or Sherawali, the mother who rides a lion.

Common forms of Durga in marble

• Durga seated or standing on her vahana, a lion, or in some regional traditions a tiger.
• Eight-armed or ten-armed Durga holding the weapons traditionally given to her by the gods, such as the trishul, chakra, conch, sword, bow, mace and lotus, with one hand often raised in blessing.
• Mahishasuramardini: Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura, a dynamic form closely associated with Durga Puja.
• A calm, seated Ambe Maa on a lion with fewer arms, which many families prefer for daily home worship.

Choosing between a calm and a dynamic form

A blessing Durga seated on a lion has a peaceful presence and suits a small home mandir. Mahishasuramardini is more dramatic and usually wider, with the lion, the demon and many arms spread across the base. Some families reserve the fierce form for temples or festival worship. Practices vary by region and family, so follow your own tradition.

What to consider before you enquire

Durga murtis with many arms have slender projecting elements, so ask how the weapons and hands are carved and how they are protected in packing. Many Durga murtis are painted, with a red sari and gold detailing, while others are left in white marble. Measure the width as well as the height of your mandir, since the lion extends the base.