Raktabija Vadha by durga in devi mahatmyam
“Raktabija Vadha” is an episode from Hindu religious history that is featured in the Devi Mahatmya, a sacred text that narrates the stories of the goddess Durga’s battles against various demons. The term “Raktabija Vadha” can be translated to mean “the slaying of Raktabija.”
Devi Mahatmyam’s 8th Chapter features the Raktabija Vadha (the demolition of demon Raktabija).
The story of Raktabija Vadha is as follows:
- Raktabija was a powerful demon who had received a boon from Lord Brahma, which made him virtually invulnerable. According to this boon, whenever a drop of his blood fell on the ground, a new demon would be born from that drop.
- Raktabija began causing chaos and destruction by battling the gods and goddesses. The problem with him was that every time he was wounded in battle, drops of his blood would fall to the ground, and from each drop, a new demon would emerge, making him virtually indestructible.
- The gods were unable to defeat Raktabija due to this unique ability. They were in dire need of a solution to end his reign of terror.
- In response to the gods’ pleas, the goddess Durga emerged in her fierce form with multiple arms and various weapons, riding a lion as her mount.
- A fierce battle ensued between Durga and Raktabija. During the battle, Durga wounded Raktabija, and drops of his blood began falling to the ground.
- To prevent the creation of new demons from Raktabija’s blood, Durga immediately extended her tongue and licked up the drops of blood before they could reach the ground. She continued to attack Raktabija and drained his blood, ultimately killing him.
The episode of Raktabija Vadha symbolizes the goddess Durga’s ability to overcome seemingly invincible challenges and destroy the forces of evil. It highlights her immense power and her role as the protector of the universe. Raktabija Vadha is an important aspect of the Devi Mahatmya and is celebrated during the festival of Navaratri, particularly on the seventh day, known as Maha Saptami, when the goddess’s victory over Raktabija is commemorated.