The goddess of the mango tree is Amba, also known as Ambika.
The Mango Goddess: Amba or Ambika
Amba (or Ambika) is a revered deity in Hinduism, specifically identified as the goddess associated with the mango tree. Her significance transcends this particular connection, as she embodies profound divine power and universal aspects of creation and protection.
Divine Identities and Cosmic Role
Amba's identity is closely intertwined with some of the most powerful figures in the Hindu pantheon:
- Durga: She is widely identified with Durga, the fierce and protective warrior goddess known for combating evil and restoring cosmic order.
- Adi Parashakti: More comprehensively, Amba is considered Adi Parashakti, the supreme primordial energy and the ultimate Mother of the Universe. This highlights her role as the fundamental source of all creation, encompassing not only sentient beings but also the natural world, including the mango tree.
Mythological Significance and Puranic References
The divine might and cosmic influence of Amba/Ambika are extensively detailed in various Hindu scriptures, particularly the Puranas:
- Skanda Purana: According to the Skanda Purana, Amba demonstrates her immense power by defeating the formidable demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. This act solidifies her role as a divine protector who vanquishes malevolent forces.
- Devi Bhagavatam: The Devi Bhagavatam further emphasizes Ambika's supreme status, presenting her as the progenitor of all other goddesses. This establishes her as the original divine feminine principle from whom all other female deities emanate, underscoring her foundational importance in the divine hierarchy.
Through these rich mythological narratives, Amba (Ambika) is revered not just as the deity of the mango tree, but as a representation of universal creative energy, divine motherhood, and a formidable force against evil.
