Goddess Bhavani - Importance - Symbolism

Goddess Bhavani is one among the numerous forms of Mother Goddess Shakti. This name is especially used to refer to the fierce form that She took to annihilate demons Mahishasura and his companions. Bhavani is one among the important names of Goddess Parvati. The name is also used to refer to Goddess Parvati as the consort of Shiva.

Bhavani means existence or coming into being.

Bhava also means samsara or the world. Mother Goddess is responsible for the seemingly real world of names and forms. She creates all beings in the world, nurtures them and protects life. Hence she is called Bhavani. (please note that there are numerous meaning attributed to the name Bhavani)

It is also believed that Mother Goddess appeared in the form of Bhavani and blessed Sri Ram and Hanuman before the epic battle in the Ramayana to rescue Mata Sita.

One of the most famous images associated with Goddess Bhavani is that Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj kneeling down before Her and taking Her blessings.

One of the most popular murtis of Goddess Bhavani is that of the Tulja Bhavani worshipped in Maharashtra and that of Kheer Bhawani in Jammu and Kashmir.

A prayer associated with Bhavani is the Bhavani Ashtakam written by Adi Shankaracharya.

Goddess Bhavani Symbolism

Symbolism associated with Bhavani embodies various aspects of power, protection, and compassion. Here are some key symbols associated with her:

Trishul (Trident): Bhavani is often depicted holding a trishul, symbolizing her power to destroy evil forces and protect her devotees. The trident also represents the three aspects of existence - creation, preservation, and destruction.

Abhaya Mudra: This is a gesture of reassurance and protection, commonly seen in depictions of deities. Bhavani often blesses her devotees with this mudra, signifying her role as a protector and provider of fearlessness.

Conch Shell (Shankha): The conch shell is associated with divine sound, often symbolizing the sacredness of creation and the power to dispel negativity. Bhavani's conch shell represents the auspiciousness of her presence and the call to spiritual awakening.

Lotus (Padma): The lotus is a symbol of purity and spiritual awakening. It represents the blossoming of one's spiritual potential despite being rooted in muddy waters. Bhavani's association with the lotus signifies her ability to uplift devotees from the material world towards spiritual enlightenment.

Lion: Bhavani is sometimes depicted riding a lion, symbolizing her ferocious aspect and her ability to conquer and subdue negative forces. The lion also represents courage, strength, and fearlessness.

Third Eye (TriNetra): Like many Hindu deities, Bhavani is often depicted with a third eye on her forehead, symbolizing her inner wisdom, insight, and divine vision. It represents her ability to see beyond the physical realm into the spiritual dimension.

Sword: In some depictions, Bhavani holds a sword, symbolizing her power to cut through ignorance and dispel darkness. It represents her role as a warrior against evil forces and protector of righteousness.

Veena: Sometimes, Bhavani is depicted holding a veena, a musical instrument symbolizing harmony, creativity, and divine resonance. It represents the melodious aspect of her nature and her ability to create beauty and balance in the universe.

These symbols collectively represent the multifaceted nature of Goddess Bhavani, encompassing her roles as a protector, creator, destroyer of evil, and embodiment of divine grace and compassion.