Goddess Kali

Kali is the goddess of death and destruction. She is one of four major Hindu goddesses associated with the god Siva (Shiva); said to be his wife. Mythology tells us Kali sprang from the forehead of the Hindu deity "Durga", Kali's name means "The Black One".

Goddess Kali most often depicted as blood-drenched, her protruding tongue also dripping with blood. In addition to wearing a necklace of human skulls and a belt of human hands, she holds the head of the decapitated demon. She is also seen wielding a bloody sword. In spite of her repulsive appearance, Kali is revered in many parts of India. She is known for destroying ignorance, helping those who strive for knowledge of God.

According to Hindu mythology, the demon "Raktabija" could not be killed by the gods. Spilling a drop of this demon's blood on the ground created a new demon. In battle with this demon, the gods were dismayed to see the battlefield covered with demons spawned from each drop of blood that hit the ground.

Unable to get the help of Siva, they sought out his consort "Parvati". Parvati set out after Raktabija, taking the form of Kali.

The story says Kali rode into battle on a lion, ordering the other gods to attack Raktabija. As the gods struck, Kali spread out her tongue to catch the drops of blood coming from Raktabija's wounds. Unable to replicate, Raktibija perished.

However, Kali grew mad on Raktabija's blood, running around the universe murdering anyone who crossed her path. In her madness, she dressed herself with the heads, limbs and entrails of her victims. Seeing her destruction, her husband Siva threw himself at her feet to try and stop her. Seeing her husband, she did stop. The madness abated and Kali embraced Siva and shed her horrific form.