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 foliage, symbolizing fertility and auspiciousness.
Meldi Maa's worship underscores the deep connection between spirituality and agriculture in Gujarat, highlighting her role as a guardian and benefactor to her devotees
