Viral Video: In the heart of Hindu worship, offerings to gods and goddesses serve as a bridge between the mortal and the divine. These offerings vary widely: some devotees bring fruits, while others adhere to the ancient practice of animal sacrifice. Vedas and legends tell of deities who favor such offerings, with goats and buffaloes often mentioned as preferred sacrifices.A viral video has reignited discussions on this age-old tradition. The footage shows a line of deities, plates laden with mutton before them. A woman, claiming to be inside the Chamunda temple, is seen partaking in what she calls mutton prasad. Buckets brimming with mutton are distributed to the devotees.Viral video stirs debateThe video was posted by X user, realwajidkhan with the caption, Hindu women sit and sing in the temple of Chamunda Mata. She is eating. Now you tell me what is this Mahhah This video has sparked a wave of debate online. While some argue for the preservation of traditional rituals, others call for a reevaluation of such practices in modern times. Watch the video here:हिंदू महिलाए चामुंडा माता के मंदिर मैं बैठ कर महहह्हखाह रही है . अब आप ही बता दीजिये यें महह्ह क्या है 🙈 pic.twitter.com/fxqBA3B6Z8— Wajidkhan (@realwajidkhan) June 20, 2024The Chamunda goddess, according to legend, is traditionally honored with animal sacrifices and offerings of wine. However, such practices have waned under the influence of Vaishnavism, which advocates for non-violence and vegetarian offerings.What does the legend sayGoddess Chamunda stands out as a major manifestation of Durga Devi in Hinduism. Her origins are detailed in the ancient texts, Devi Mahatmya and Markandeya Purana. According to these scriptures, during a fierce battle between Goddess Durga and the demons Munda and Chanda, Kali Devi emerged from Durgas forehead and vanquished the demons. Pleased with Kalis victory, Durga named her Chamunda.Who is goddess ChamundaChamunda is recognized as one of the principal Yoginis, part of a group of sixty-four or eighty-one Tantric goddesses who accompany Parvati Devi. Her name combines the names of the demons Chanda and Munda. Chamunda is often linked with Goddess Parvati, Kali, or Durga.In traditional depictions, Goddess Chamunda is shown residing in cremation grounds or near sacred fig trees. Devotees offer her wine and, historically, performed ritual animal sacrifices. However, the practice of animal sacrifice has become less prevalent due to the influence of Vaishnavism and Shaivism.
