Bhairavi

Bhairavi is the fifth Mahavidya — the fierce female counterpart of Bhairava (Shiva). She represents the tapas (ascetic heat) and destructive fire of spiritual transformation. Her worship is especially associated with the heroic path (vira-marga) of tantra, which uses transgressive practices to break through conventional limitations. She presides over the cremation ground — the ultimate symbol of the dissolution of all attachments.

Red complexion, fierce expression, three eyes, four arms holding a rosary, a book, and showing abhaya and varada mudras. Wearing red or a garland of severed heads. Seated on a lotus or standing in a cremation ground.