Mother Kali is one and unique as she alone exists. But even this Mother Kali has 11 forms (which she takes to protect and help her devotees), and each of these forms possesses its own distinct significance. Sometimes she is calm and silent, and at other times fierce and terrifying. This eleven forms are more popular in Bengal and eastern parts of India.
Dakshina Kali: This is the most widely worshipped
form of Kali in rural Bengal. She is also known as Shyama Kali. The
blue-complexioned Goddess wears a garland of severed heads. In her left hands
she holds a freshly severed head and a sword; in her right hands she displays
gestures of blessing and protection. Lord Shiva lies prostrate beneath her
feet.
Shmashana Kali: This form is worshipped in cremation
grounds. It is said that in earlier times, robbers would worship this form
before going out on raids. Tantra, mantra, and animal sacrifice are key
elements of this worship.
Siddha Kali: This form is worshipped on the night of
the new moon (Amavasya). Practitioners worship her mainly to attain spiritual
powers (siddhis).
Phalaharini Kali: This form is worshipped once a year
in household settings. Her worship is meant for maintaining peace and
well-being in the family.
Maha Kali: This form has ten heads, ten arms, and ten
legs. Each of her hands carries a weapon. Shiva is not present with this form
of Kali. Maha Kali is worshipped on Bhoot Chaturdashi.
Kamyakali: This worship usually takes place on the
eighth lunar day, the fourteenth lunar day, new moon, and full moon. The
rituals are very similar to those of Dakshina Kali.
Guhya Kali: This Goddess has a dark complexion. She
is adorned with a garland of 50 severed heads. Her appearance is extremely
fearsome.
Bhadra Kali: This form is worshipped for the welfare
of society. Her worship is usually performed in temples.
Chamunda Kali: Chamunda Kali is simultaneously a form
of Goddess Durga and Parvati. She slew the two demons Chanda and Munda. This
Goddess destroys evil forces.
Shri Kali: A special form of Goddess Durga or
Parvati. She killed the demon named Daruka. She also absorbed poison by
entering Lord Shiva’s throat.
Raksha Kali: Raksha Kali is a special form of Dakshina Kali. Her name means “the Protector Kali,” as she protects the world. She is also worshipped for the protection of one’s home and property.