Goddess Kali Story is found in the Devi Mahatmya and it is the most authentic source. But there are numerous regional stories associated with Goddess Kali too. Here are few important stories of Goddess Kali Mata in brief and her symbolism.
Goddess Kali Story In Devi Mahatmya
In Devi Mahatmya, Goddess Kali is said to have emerged from an angry forehead of Goddess Durga. In this form, she is believed to be the manifestation of Durga’s anger. She vanquishes Demons Chanda and Munda and later the demon Raktabija. It is said that Goddess Kali after killing the demon still continued her destruction and finally Lord Shiva had to lie on Kali’s path. Goddess Kali stepped upon him and soon she realized her mistake and this cooled her down.
Goddess Kali Story In Kerala
It is widely believed especially in the South Indian state of Kerala that Goddess Kali appeared to vanquish demon Darika – who ruled the three worlds and started eliminating all that was good. Sage Narada informs about Darika’s activities to Shiva. An enraged Shiva opens his third eye and from it emerged Goddess Kali. This origin of Goddess Kali is popular in Kerala where is worshipped as Bhadrakali. The fight between Darika and Kali shook the entire universe and after a prolonged fight, she kills Darika.
Kali Wife Of Shiva
Another legend suggests that Goddess Kali is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and in this form, she is the wife of Lord Shiva. Kali is the terrible and violent form of Parvati, who is otherwise ‘Shanta swarupini’ – in compassionate form.
Symbolically Kali absorbs all the creation. When Adharma (loosely meaning evil) conquers the universe, Kali absorbs all her creation. We human call it as death and destruction or apocalypse. She prepares the world for the next cycle of creation. After absorbing all the creation she waits for the right time to start the next cycle of creation. This divine play of Kali continues endlessly.
Symbolically Kali absorbs all the creation. When Adharma (loosely meaning evil) conquers the universe, Kali absorbs all her creation. We human call it as death and destruction or apocalypse. She prepares the world for the next cycle of creation. After absorbing all the creation she waits for the right time to start the next cycle of creation. This divine play of Kali continues endlessly.
Other Stories of Goddess Kali in detail