Kali

Kali is the dark, fierce form of the Divine Mother — the destroyer of time, ignorance, and ego. Her name derives from kala (time/darkness), and she represents the ultimate reality beyond all forms. Despite her terrifying appearance, she is the most compassionate mother to her true devotees, destroying their bondage and leading them to liberation. Kali emerged from the brow of Durga during the battle with the demons Chanda and Munda (hence also called Chamunda). She is worshipped especially in Bengal, Assam, and Odisha — the Kalighat temple in Kolkata and Dakshineswar (Sri Ramakrishna's temple) being famous shrines. Kali Puja coincides with Diwali night.

Dark blue or black complexion, naked or clad only in a garland of skulls (munda mala) and a skirt of severed arms, four arms holding a severed head, a bloody sword, a trident, and a bowl. Long flowing hair, three eyes, red tongue lolling out. Standing or dancing on the prostrate body of Shiva (symbolising that Shakti is the active principle while Shiva is the witness).

Sacred Day

Tuesday

Associated Planet

Saturn