Goddess Durga, fighting Mahishasura, the buffalo-demon. The Devas, celestial beings watching the event from the clouds. Devi is the Divine Mother of the Hindu culture and believed to be the power behind the work of creation, preservation, and destruction of the world. Her name means goddess. Devi is the consort (wife) of Shiva. She has many names and forms such as he bloodthirsty Kali, the gentle Parvati, mother of the elephant god Ganesha, or the warrior Durga. Durga is often depicted with multiple arms, riding a ferocious lion and carrying various weapons. Her many hands represent eight quadrants or ten directions in Hinduism. The lion represents power, will and determination. Durga riding the lion symbolizes her mastery over all these qualities. Her triumph as Mahishasura Mardini, Slayer of the buffalo Demon is a central episode of the scripture Devi Mahatmya. Her victory is celebrated annually in the festivals of Navaratri and Durga Puja.