New Delhi, October 7 (Daily Kiran) : The Dashamahavidya, a significant aspect of Hindu Shakta tradition, refers to a group of ten goddesses. The term “Mahavidya” translates to “great knowledge.” Worship of these deities holds particular importance in Shakta and Tantric practices, with variations in their forms, sequences, and interpretations found across various texts and traditions.
The ten goddesses commonly recognized in this tradition are Kali, Tara, Tripurasundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Baglamukhi, Matangi, and Kamala. Scholars note that this sequence and grouping are the most prevalent in modern sources. According to legend, when Lord Shiva prevented Goddess Sati from attending the yajna of Daksha Prajapati, Sati revealed her cosmic form in anger. As Shiva moved in different directions, he witnessed her various manifestations, leading to the emergence of ten forms representing the ten directions.
Kali holds a prominent position among the Dashamahavidya. She is depicted with symbols related to time, death, and transformation. In Shakta tradition, Kali is regarded as one of the fierce aspects of the goddess.
Tara is considered the second goddess of the Dashamahavidya. She is associated with the tradition of aiding devotees in overcoming crises, and her worship is found within both Shakta and Tantric practices.
Tripurasundari, also known as Shodashi, is intricately linked to the Shri Vidya tradition, where her worship holds significant importance.
Bhuvaneshwari is recognized as the fourth goddess. Her name relates to “Bhuvan,” meaning the world, and she is revered as the presiding deity of the universe in various religious traditions.
Chhinnamasta’s representation is one of the most unique and symbolic among the Dashamahavidya. She is traditionally depicted holding her own severed head, with her form interpreted through various symbols in different Shakta traditions.
Bhairavi, the sixth goddess, is associated with power, austerity, and fierceness. Shakta literature provides diverse religious interpretations of Bhairavi.
Dhumavati stands apart from the other goddesses. Typically portrayed as an elderly woman or widow, she symbolizes renunciation and the harsher aspects of life.
Baglamukhi is recognized as the eighth goddess of the Dashamahavidya. Her traditional depiction shows her in a posture that symbolizes the ability to halt a person’s speech and actions, granting her a unique place in Tantric traditions.
Matangi, the ninth goddess, is linked to speech, music, and the arts. She is associated with certain aspects of the goddess Saraswati in various Shakta traditions, though their religious identities differ.
Kamala is the tenth and final goddess in this group. She is depicted with symbols of the lotus and prosperity, often associated with the goddess Lakshmi in various traditions.
It is essential to distinguish the Dashamahavidya from Navadurga, which comprises nine forms worshipped over the nine days of Navratri: Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. While both represent divine feminine energy, the Dashamahavidya specifically pertains to Shakta and Tantric traditions, characterized by their unique forms and worship practices.
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