New Delhi, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : The Dashamahavidya, a significant aspect of the Shakta tradition in Hinduism, refers to a group of ten goddesses. The term ‘Mahavidya’ translates to ‘great knowledge.’ Worship of these deities is particularly revered within Shakta and Tantric practices. Various texts and traditions present slight variations in their forms, order, and interpretations.
The ten Mahavidyas typically recognized are Kali, Tara, Tripurasundari, Bhuwaneswari, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi, and Kamala. Scholars suggest that this sequence and grouping are the most widely accepted in contemporary sources. Legend has it that when Lord Shiva prevented Devi Sati from attending her father Daksha Prajapati’s yagna, Sati, in her fury, revealed her cosmic form. Wherever Shiva turned, a new aspect of the goddess appeared, culminating in the manifestation of ten forms representing the ten directions.
Kali holds a prominent position among the Dashamahavidyas. She is often depicted with symbols of time, death, and transformation, embodying the fierce aspects of the goddess in Shakta tradition.
Tara, the second goddess, is associated with the tradition that portrays her as a savior in times of crisis. She is worshiped across Shakta and Tantric practices.
Tripurasundari, also known as Shodashi, is closely linked to the Shri Vidya tradition, where her worship is of paramount importance.
Bhuwaneswari, the fourth goddess, is associated with the world or ‘bhuvan.’ In religious traditions, she is referred to as the presiding deity of the universe.
Chhinnamasta is unique among the Mahavidyas, often depicted holding her own severed head. Her imagery is explained through various symbols across different Shakta traditions.
Bhairavi, the sixth goddess, is represented with symbols of power, austerity, and ferocity. Various religious interpretations of Bhairavi can be found in Shakta literature.
Dhumavati’s representation stands apart from the others, typically depicted as an elderly widow. Her form is often associated with renunciation and the harsher aspects of life.
Bagalamukhi, the eighth goddess, is traditionally shown in a specific pose, symbolizing the ability to halt a person’s speech and actions. This characteristic has earned her a special place in Tantric traditions.
Matangi, the ninth goddess, is linked to speech, music, and the arts. In several Shakta traditions, she is associated with aspects of Goddess Saraswati, although they are distinct deities.
Kamala is recognized as the tenth and final Mahavidya. She embodies symbols of the lotus and prosperity, often connected to Goddess Lakshmi in various traditions.
It’s crucial to differentiate the Dashamahavidya from Navadurga. Navadurga comprises nine forms—Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri—worshipped over the nine days of Navratri. In contrast, the Dashamahavidya represents a distinct group of ten goddesses tied to Shakta and Tantric religious traditions, thus viewed as separate religious practices associated with the forms of the goddess. The Dashamahavidya is understood within Hindu Shakta tradition as a collection of ten unique manifestations of the goddess.
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