Dasamahavidya In Hindu Traditional Painting
The Das Mahavidyas, meaning "the ten great
wisdoms," are a group of ten goddesses in Hinduism. They represent
distinct aspects of the Divine Feminine, each possessing unique attributes and
powers. In Hindu traditional painting, especially in the Tantric tradition, the
Das Mahavidyas are frequently depicted in various artistic forms.
Here's how they are typically represented:
Kali: Often depicted as fierce, with a dark complexion and a
garland of skulls around her neck. She symbolizes destruction and the
overcoming of ego.
Tara: She is portrayed as serene and compassionate,
sometimes depicted standing or sitting on a lotus. Tara represents compassion
and healing.
Tripura Sundari (Sodashi): Often shown as a beautiful young
woman, Tripura Sundari represents beauty, grace, and harmony.
Bhuvaneshwari: Depicted as majestic and seated on a lotus,
Bhuvaneshwari symbolizes the nurturing and sustaining aspect of the Divine
Mother.
Bhairavi: Typically depicted as fearsome, with a dark
complexion and holding a sword and a cup of blood. Bhairavi embodies the power
of destruction and transformation.
Chinnamasta: Usually depicted as a self-decapitated goddess
standing on a copulating couple, holding her own severed head and drinking her
own blood. Chinnamasta symbolizes self-sacrifice and the control of primal
desires.
Dhumavati: Often shown as an old, widow-like figure,
Dhumavati represents the aspect of the Divine associated with disappointment,
suffering, and the void.
Bagalamukhi: Depicted with a golden complexion, Bagalamukhi
is often shown seated on a throne, holding a club and pulling the tongue of a
demon. She symbolizes the power to paralyze or defeat enemies.
Matangi: Typically depicted as dark complexioned and seated
on a throne, Matangi symbolizes the power of speech, music, and creativity.
Kamala: Depicted as a radiant goddess seated on a lotus,
Kamala represents abundance, prosperity, and fertility.
In traditional paintings, each Mahavidya is depicted with
specific iconographic details and attributes that represent their individual
characteristics and powers. These paintings not only serve as artistic
expressions but also as tools for meditation and spiritual contemplation in
Hindu Tantra.