Maa Aadishakti

Through the study of the unparalleled scripture of Shakti worship, the Durga Saptashati, I have attempted to present my understanding of this sacred text through this novel.

In a few words, the Durga Saptashati, composed by Sage Markandeya, inspires human beings to cultivate courage, self-confidence, self-respect, perseverance, and control over one's emotions, especially in adverse circumstances.

The two main characters of the narrative, King Suratha and the merchant Samadhi, represent all of us as human beings. King Suratha is betrayed by his own officials, who seize his wealth and kingdom, while the merchant Samadhi is harassed and dispossessed of his wealth by his own wife and sons. Such experiences of being deceived by our own people, in varying degrees, are a part of every human life.

It is our attachment, greed, and ego that become the root causes of our suffering-this is the core message of the Durga Saptashati.

However, it is truly unfortunate when this profound scripture is reduced merely to a text for ritual recitation and is surrounded by layers of superstition, hypocrisy, ostentation, fear, and illusion.

I sincerely hope that thoughtful readers will share their reflections and perspectives with me.