Madhubani Painting of Mother Goddess Durga, "Durga Ma"

Fierce and fearless, Durga is the mother goddess in the Hindu pantheon, empowered by all gods to slay the nefarious buffalo-demon and establish peace in three worlds. According to legend she was created for this purpose out of flames issued from the mouths of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and the lesser gods. She was born fully-grown and beautiful; nevertheless, she presents a menacing form to her enemies. Vidushini works in the traditional Madhubani style for this portrait, painted on handmade paper.