Meldi Maa is a revered folk goddess predominantly worshipped in Gujarat, India, especially in the Saurashtra region. She is considered the protector of farmlands and is believed to safeguard devotees from various adversities.​

 




Origin Legend:

According to popular folklore, the demon Amruva terrorized the people of Saurashtra. In response, Goddess Uma appeared to protect them. The demon hid within the skin of a dead cow, which Goddess Uma couldn't touch due to its impurity. In her frustration, Goddess Uma rubbed her hands, and from the resulting dirt, a young girl named Meldi emerged. Meldi effortlessly defeated the demon. Later, Goddess Chamunda sent Meldi to Kamarupa to confront dark forces. There, Meldi transformed negative energies into a black goat, symbolizing her dominance over darkness. Pleased with her valor, Goddess Chamunda crowned Meldi as the protector of devotees in the Kali Yuga.

Iconography:

Meldi Maa is depicted as a young goddess riding a goat, holding eight weapons:​

Trishula (trident)​

Sword​

Lotus​

Discus (Chakra)​

Knife

 

 

Bottle containing captured dark forces​

One hand raised in Abhaya (fearlessness) gesture​

She is adorned with traditional attire and ornaments, exuding a blissful demeanor. ​

Temples and Worship:

Numerous temples dedicated to Meldi Maa are found across Gujarat, attracting devotees, especially during Navratri. Notable temples include those in Mehasana, Ahmedabad, Anand, and Surat. Devotees often offer coconuts as a tradition after their wishes are fulfilled. There's also a temple in Borivali, Maharashtra. A unique belief in Gujarat holds that worshipping Meldi Maa aids in successfully obtaining a U.S. visa, reflecting the community's global aspirations. ​

Artistic Representation:

Meldi Maa is prominently featured in "Mata ni Pachedi," a traditional art form from Gujarat. These hand-painted cloths depict the goddess seated on her goat amidst 

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