Sri Tara and Sri Matangi are two of the Mahavidyas, a group of ten Tantric goddesses in Hinduism, each representing a different aspect of the Divine Feminine. Although both goddesses are part of the same group, they have distinct identities, attributes, stories, and symbolism.
Tara
Tara is one of the most revered goddesses in the Mahavidya tradition and is often considered a form of the goddess Parvati or Kali. She is known as the "Star" goddess and is associated with protection, guidance, and the removal of obstacles. Tara is particularly venerated in Tibetan Buddhism as well, where she is known as a compassionate savior.
Iconography: Tara is often depicted as a blue-skinned goddess, similar to Kali, with wild hair and a fierce expression. She holds a scimitar and a lotus, symbolizing the power to cut through ignorance and the purity of wisdom. Her form can be terrifying, but she is also a protector.
Attributes: Tara is known as the savior who helps her devotees cross the ocean of ignorance. She is also associated with the sound 'Om' and is often invoked for protection and guidance.
Stories and Legends: In Hindu mythology, Tara is said to have saved Shiva when he consumed poison during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). Her intervention calmed him, allowing him to retain the poison in his throat, which turned it blue, earning him the name Neelkanth.
Importance: Tara is revered for her power to provide protection and guidance, especially in times of crisis. She is a powerful force for transformation, helping devotees navigate difficult situations.
Matangi
Matangi is another Mahavidya goddess, often considered a Tantric form of Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and learning. Matangi represents the outcast and the marginalized, embodying the power of speech, music, and the arts.
Iconography: Matangi is typically depicted with dark or green skin, wearing unclean clothes, which symbolize her connection with the non-conventional and the impure. She holds a veena, symbolizing her connection to music and knowledge, and a parrot is often seen beside her, representing speech.
Attributes: Matangi is associated with the power of communication, the arts, and the ability to transcend social norms. She represents the wisdom that comes from outside the established order and is often worshiped by those seeking mastery over speech and creativity.
Stories and Legends: Matangi is often linked to the story of Ucchishta Matangi, where she is considered the leftover or impure form of Saraswati, embodying the power and wisdom of what is rejected or discarded. She is also associated with Chandalini, the goddess who lives in cremation grounds, symbolizing her connection with the untouchable and the impure.
Importance: Matangi is important for those seeking knowledge, artistic inspiration, and the ability to transcend societal limitations. She is often invoked by musicians, artists, and those who work with words.
Key Differences
Nature and Role: Tara is a protector and guide, associated with the removal of obstacles and the provision of guidance, especially in crises. Matangi, on the other hand, is associated with knowledge, speech, and the arts, particularly focusing on the marginalized aspects of society.
Iconography: Tara is depicted in a fierce, protective form, while Matangi is depicted in a more serene but unconventional form, often with symbols of music and speech.
Associations: Tara is closely linked to the fierce forms of the goddess, like Kali, and is associated with protection and transformation. Matangi is more closely related to Saraswati, focusing on knowledge, creativity, and non-conformity.
Similarities
Tantric Nature: Both goddesses are part of the Mahavidya tradition, which is deeply rooted in Tantra. They embody different aspects of the Divine Feminine and are worshiped for their unique powers.
Transformation: Both goddesses are associated with transformation, though in different ways—Tara through protection and guidance, and Matangi through wisdom and the breaking of societal norms.
Empowerment of Devotees: Both deities empower their devotees, Tara by offering protection and Matangi by offering mastery over the arts and speech.
Festivals and Worship
Tara: Tara is worshipped through various rituals, particularly in Tantric practices. Her worship often involves the use of specific mantras, and she is revered in both Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. One of the significant festivals where she is honored is Navaratri, particularly in the context of the Mahavidyas.
Matangi: Matangi is often worshipped by those in the artistic and scholarly communities. She is invoked for inspiration, eloquence, and mastery over the arts. Matangi is also worshipped during Navaratri, particularly by those seeking to break free from societal constraints or enhance their creative abilities.
Modern Relevance
Tara: In the modern context, Tara is often invoked by those seeking protection in times of crisis, both physical and spiritual. Her role as a guide and protector remains significant, especially in the spiritual practices of Tantra and Tibetan Buddhism.
Matangi: Matangi's relevance has grown in modern times, especially among those who work in the arts, media, and communication. Her association with the unconventional and the marginalized also resonates with those who seek to challenge societal norms and express their individuality.
Lesser-Known Facts
Tara: In Tibetan Buddhism, Tara is venerated in many forms, with the Green Tara and White Tara being the most famous. Green Tara is known for her active compassion, while White Tara is associated with long life and healing.
Matangi: Matangi is often associated with pollution and impurity, which is unusual for a goddess associated with wisdom and speech. This aspect emphasizes the Tantric belief in finding divinity in all aspects of existence, even those considered impure.
Current Puja Rituals
Tara: Tara puja typically involves the chanting of her mantra, "Om Tare Tuttare Ture Swaha," and offerings that include flowers, incense, and food. The rituals are often performed in Tantric circles, focusing on protection, guidance, and the removal of obstacles.
Matangi: Matangi puja is often performed with offerings of unclean or leftover food, which symbolizes her connection to the impure. Her worship includes the chanting of her mantra, "Om Hreem Aim Shreem Namo Bhagawate Ucchishta Chandaliyai Shreem Swaha," and offerings of music, poetry, and words, reflecting her dominion over the arts.
Tara and Matangi, though both part of the Mahavidya tradition, represent very different aspects of the Divine Feminine. Tara embodies protection and guidance, while Matangi represents knowledge and the power of the unconventional. Both goddesses offer profound spiritual insights and empowerment to their devotees, reflecting the diverse and inclusive nature of Hindu spirituality. Their worship continues to evolve, finding relevance in modern times as symbols of protection, creativity, and the breaking of societal boundaries.