Archive · 28 Sep 2025
Ancient Durga Worship Traced in Madhya Pradesh
People in Madhya Pradesh have been worshiping Goddess Durga for over 2300 years!
During excavations, ancient statues of Durga were found, showing that this worship goes back to the Mauryan era.
Chanakya, in Arthashastra, mentioned a form of Durga called Aparajita, who was worshipped for protection.
Scholars have noted similarities between Durga and other ancient goddesses from different cultures like Nana and Inanna.
While Nana was associated with war, power, and fertility, Inanna symbolized material power and fertility, but Durga represents divine power, wisdom, blessings, and justice.
Durga worship in Madhya Pradesh dates back over 2300 years, even prior to the Mauryan era.
Two ancient Durga idols, approximately 2300 years old, were discovered in Ninore, Sehore.
Ancient sculptures of Mahishasurmardini were also found in Hinglajgarh, Mandsaur.
The Arthashastra mentions Goddess Aparajita, a form of Durga, who was worshipped in forts.
Scholars note similarities between Goddess Durga, Nana and Inanna.
- Who
- Researchers and scholars
- What
- Examined the history of Durga worship in Madhya Pradesh
- When
- Over 2300 years ago
- Where
- Madhya Pradesh, including Ninore and Mandsaur
- Why
- To understand the origins and evolution of Durga worship
- Location of Worship
- Madhya Pradesh
- Era of Worship
- Mauryan era (2300+ years ago)
- Deity
- Goddess Durga (Mahishasurmardini)
- Ancient Idols
- Found in Ninore (Sehore district)
