The Hidden Superhero

     — Shanaya Sen (Age: 12)

Superman, Batman, Flash, Wonder Woman – the world of superheroes is vast, filled with extraordinary characters who fight evil and protect humanity. But do superheroes only exist within the pages of comic books or on the big screen in Marvel movies? The idea of a superhero goes much deeper, coming from century old cultures.

For decades, movies have brought superheroes to life – characters with incredible powers, whether gained from radioactive spiders or by being born on distant planets. Take Superman, for example: a “Kryptonian” alien who arrived on Earth as a baby and developed his powers in the safety of our planet. Yet, Superman isn’t the only hero with a fascinating birth story.

Long before the age of comic books, there was Durga – a legendary figure whose story dates to between 400 and 600 CE! Durga was created for a singular purpose: to defeat the powerful demon Mahishasura. While Spider-Man gained his abilities from a spider bite, Durga was formed by the combined energies of the most powerful gods. Each god blessed her with their most powerful weapons and divine gifts: a trident (Trishul), a discus (Sudarshan Chakra), a lotus flower (Padma), a thunderbolt (Vajra), a bow and arrow, a spear and javelin, a conch (Shankh), an axe and shield, and, most impressively, a majestic lion as her mount. Why settle for a Batmobile when you could ride a powerful lion sent from the gods?

These gifts weren’t just weapons – they symbolised the combined strength and the ability to empower Durga. As we celebrate our favourite heroes – whether they wear capes, wield shields, or swing from skyscrapers – let’s not forget Durga, the original warrior goddess. Her courage, strength, and divine purpose continue to inspire millions around the world. Her story reminds us that heroism has existed long before the first comic book was printed, changing the world again and again.