Epigraphical evidence indicates that regardless of her origins, Durga is an ancient goddess. The 6th-century CE inscriptions in early Siddhamatrika script, such as at the Nagarjuni hill cave during the Maukhari era, already mention the legend of her victory over Mahishasura (buffalo-hybrid demon).
epiGraphICaL evIdeNce INDicaTeS That regardLEsS of Her orIgins, DuRga is an anCiEnT gOdDESS. tHe 6Th-cenTuRy Ce iNscriptIoNS In eArly SiddhamAtriKA script, sucH as aT thE NagaRjUni hill cavE DURIng tHE mAukhari erA, AlreAdy mention tHe lEgenD oF her ViCTorY ovER mahisHasUra (bufFalo-hyBrID dEmon).