Shakti, the divine feminine – Chhavi Saini, Townley Grammar School

Shakti is associated with various goddesses who embody either destructive or creative powers, opposite ends of the spectrum. Examples embodying the former include Kali,  the latter include Durga. In Sectors of hinduism such as shaktism, shakti is often seen as the ultimate reality, as opposed to one of two counterparts (Mahadevi, Great Goddess).

To quote The New Indian Express, ‘the masculine has become important in society today, simply because we have made the survival process paramount in our lives. Economics has become the driving force, not aesthetics, or dance, or music, or love, or divinity, or meditation’

The vedas inspire a spirit of appreciation that men and women are different, each with their own spiritual purpose. With this, many believe that there is a divine masculine energy taking the form of Lord Shiva while the feminine being Shakti. When united there is completeness, balance and order. Nourishment, fluidity, beauty, softness and strength are a few of many representations of the feminine identity in hindu tradition.

This belief of shakti is significant during the month of March/April. Chaitra navratri took place from March 22nd to March 30th, during this, Hindus worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, also known as shakti. During Navratri, devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and perform rituals. It is a time to seek the blessings of the goddess and to honor her different aspects or qualities, such as courage, wisdom and prosperity. It holds immense importance for the followers of Shaktism particularly. 

Hinduism in the UK has been present for many years with British cultures and holidays becoming incorporated into the lives and practices of hindus. It is important to many families in the UK however, to stay in touch with their roots and religion in order for this to be continually passed down generation by generation. A complex and diverse religion that encompasses a vast array of beliefs, practices, and traditions, its origins can be traced back many years, and over time it has evolved and adapted to different cultural contexts, resulting in a wide range of interpretations. Hinduism is recognisable for its openness and inclusivity, allowing for a multitude of perspectives to coexist. This diversity is reflected in the various sects, each with its own unique understanding of the nature of reality, the purpose of human existence, and the means of achieving Moksha.