Goddess Tara in Hinduism is
a manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti. She is one of the forms that is part
of the Mahavidyas – 10 goddesses who are forms of Goddess Shakti. Special pujas
dedicated to Goddess Tara are held during the Chaitra Ashtami day.
Tara is the name of the wife of
Brihaspati, the guru of Devas. She had eloped with Chandra, the moon god. In
Chandra, she had a son – Budha.
In some scriptures Goddess Tara is known as Ugra Tara, a
manifestation of Goddess Kali. This form is worshipped in the Kamakhya region
in Assam .
Goddess Tara is equated with Goddess Kali in eastern parts
of India .
Other Tara in Hindu
scriptures
Tara is also the name of wife of Bali ,
the Vanara king (monkey king) in Ramayana. She was well known for her beauty
and intelligence.
Tara, a Vanara, was also the name of a minister in the court
of Bali. He was the son of Brihaspati. He was huge in size and was more
intelligent than other monkeys.