This is
a unique and divine depiction of Dashabhuja (ten-armed) Maa Kali, who is placed
on a high-rising pedestal decorated with a lotus petal motif. Devi Kali
has her hair placed in a distinctive Jata-mukuta (crown of locks), adorned with
a garland of skulls and a girdle of hands. She stands on Shiva in a dynamic
pose with her tongue lolling out of her mouth as she realizes that she is
standing on Mahakala, and transforms her warring aspect into her benevolent
form.
Embodiment of Divine Ferocity and Maternal Love
This exquisite brass statue captures the powerful and complex form of Goddess Kali, a principal deity in Hinduism revered for her fierce aspect as the destroyer of evil. Crafted by skilled artisans in India, this 4-inch representation is a testament to traditional craftsmanship and spiritual devotion. Kali, often depicted as the dark mother, embodies the destructive yet ultimately regenerative forces of the universe. She is the primal energy that dissolves illusions and ego, paving the way for spiritual liberation.
In Hindu mythology, Kali's ferocity is often unleashed to protect the cosmos from demonic forces. One famous tale recounts how she emerged from the forehead of Goddess Durga to vanquish the demon Raktabija, who could multiply himself from every drop of his blood that fell to the ground. Kali, with her insatiable thirst for justice and blood, consumed his essence, preventing his resurgence and restoring cosmic balance. Her formidable appearance – the lolling tongue, the fierce gaze, the multiple arms wielding various weapons, and the garland of skulls – are symbolic of her power to transcend time, conquer death, and obliterate ignorance. Yet, beneath this terrifying visage lies an equally potent aspect of maternal love and protection for her devotees. She is the ultimate liberator, guiding souls through the cycles of life and death.
Artistry and Symbolism in Brass
The choice of brass for this idol is significant. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used for centuries in India for creating sacred objects and deities. It is believed to possess purifying properties and is durable, allowing for intricate detailing that can be passed down through generations. The patina of age that develops on brass is often considered to enhance its spiritual resonance.
Each facet of this meticulously handmade statue speaks volumes. The multiple arms signify Kali's omnipresence and her ability to engage with multifaceted challenges. The weapons she holds represent her power to destroy negative influences, be it internal vices or external adversies. The effigy beneath her feet, often depicted as a demon or a vanquished foe, symbolizes her triumph over ego, ignorance, and the material world. The ornate base upon which she stands further accentuates her divine stature, intricately carved to reflect the reverence accorded to her. This statue is more than just an object of art; it is a conduit for invoking the transformative energy of the Divine Mother, a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence, and an emblem of ultimate freedom. This compact size makes it a perfect addition to any altar, personal meditation space, or as a meaningful gift that carries profound spiritual significance.
Embracing the Divine Feminine: Understanding Kali and Her
Significance
Goddess Kali is one of the most powerful and revered deities in
Hinduism and is worshiped by many people across the globe
especially in the eastern part of India. She is considered to be
a ferocious form of Goddess Durga and is regarded as the
ultimate manifestation of Shakti. Goddess Kali also manifests as
the material nature and is regarded as the mother of all living
entities in the material world. Just like a caring mother, she
protects the living entities who follow the principles of Dharma
from demonic persons who always go against the laws of the
Supreme Lord.
Having a dark complexion, open hair, and bearing multiple arms
holding different weapons, Goddess Kali is often depicted
standing on the chest of Lord Shiva, her consort, as she
displays her rage toward the demon Raktabij. This pastime is
mentioned in various Puranas of Vedic literature in which
Goddess Kali severed the head of the demon who was creating
havoc on earth. This shows the protective nature of the Goddess.
The Vedic scriptures also mention that Goddess Kali is an
obedient devotee of the Supreme Lord Krishna or Vishnu who tests
living entities on their determination and devotion toward the
Lord.
What does Kali symbolize?
Goddess Kali is the manifestation of material nature. She is
like a benevolent mother who protects her children from any kind
of mishaps and misfortune. Mother Kali considers all living
entities her own children and takes care of them. She reforms
the forgetful souls who have turned their faces against the
Supreme Lord Krishna. Thus, she symbolizes mercy, compassion,
and kindness. Although she has a ferocious form, she is actually
carrying out the order of the Supreme Lord by utilizing her
power against those who blaspheme the Lord and do not abide by
His laws.
What is Kali worshiped for?
We can find thousands and lakhs of devotees of Goddess Kali all
over the world. She is especially venerated in the festival of
Kali Puja in the Indian states of West Bengal, Assam, and
Odisha. Being a merciful Goddess, she fulfills the desires of
her devotees. Some people worship Goddess Kali for some material
gains and profits and receive her blessings. However, those who
serve her selflessly and approach her to know about the Absolute
Truth and the real aim of human life, receive the highest
benediction of Goddess Kali. Being a devotee of the Supreme Lord
Krishna, she bestows her blessings upon them and guides them to
the path of devotion toward the Lord.
Where to place Kali statue at home?
Keeping the deity of Goddess Kali at home is very auspicious. If
you worship her regularly with faith and devotion, she will
become pleased and will shower her blessings upon you. Knowing
that she is worthy of our respectful obeisance is important and
therefore, you should not keep or handle her deity with a casual
attitude. You must keep the deity on your home altar.