#Navratri is a special time to honour the divine feminine. As we embark on the journey to pay obeisance to Ma Durga during the 9 day festivity of Navratri, let us delve deeper into the concept of female core archetypes in light of Hindu scriptures.
The major female characters depicted in one of the greatest epics of Bharat – Ramayana, displayed different qualities.
Ma Kaushalya – The Mother Kaushalya, mother of Shri Rama is an embodiment of an ideal mother. She is a nurturer, a caregiver who nourishes those around her with her maternal love. She is a kind of person who sacrifices her own happiness for the sake of her ‘children’ and her identity is defined by those under her care.
Rani Kaikeyi – The Queen Kaikeyi, the second wife of King Dashratha, though featured in a negative character, personifies ambition. She rises to the top through strategizing and perfect execution of her plans. Though her ways were faulty, she exuded confidence and is ready to break the societal norms.
Sita Ma – The Maiden At the beginning of the epic, Sita - Wife of Shri Rama is the quintessential maiden who is charming, optimistic and believes that she can make the world a better place. She is strong but rarely uses that strength to dominate others. She is usually diplomatic and careful to avoid hurting others. She wants acceptance and love from all. The Maiden is usually popular and well regarded.
Mandodari – The Rishika Mandodari, the wife of Ravan represents Rishika, and is known for her wisdom and counsel. She stands for the voice of sanity in turbulent times. She sees beyond the present into the future and remains clear-eyed in the face of uncertainty. She is the go-to person for all issues in her domain.
These female characters from the epic, define different patterns and energies. As humans, we all display both the bright and the shadow side of ourselves. Infact, most of us are in a transition phase wherein we have a predominant archetype and a secondary one, which may change with time and experience.
Each of these archetypes also demonstrate varying degree of feminine and masculine energy.
Infact, in our culture, #Ardhanarishvara represents the synthesis of masculine and feminine energies of the universe (Purusha and Prakriti) and illustrates how Shakti, the female principle of God, is inseparable from Shiva, the male principle of God, and vice versa. The union of these principles is exalted as the root and womb of all creation. The male part of Ardhanarishwar represents the passive force of the universe which is called Purusha while the female part is Prakriti or the active force. The two opposite forces must unite and work in tandem to allow creations to exist. It also means that both the male and the female powers are indispensable for creation. The universe will cease to exist if either of the two fails to participate in the creation. It also means that the male and female are equals and cannot exist without each other. Creation can happen and sustain only when the Purusha and Prakriti unite.
So, this Navratri, let us celebrate our uniqueness while we walk hand in hand and embrace the ultimate goal – to be our true self.
Let us embody the boundless and existential freedom to be—without seeking permission.
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