Bhadrakali

Bhadrakali (IAST: Bhadrakālī; ), is a Hindu goddess She is considered to be the auspicious and fortunate form of Adi Shakti who protects the good, known as bhadra. In Vaishnavism, Bhadrakali is among the many epithets of Yogamaya, the internal potency of illusion of the preserver deity, Vishnu. Etymology The name Bhadra comes from Sanskrit. In Sanskrit, "bhadra" means "auspicious" or "fortunate." Another interpretation traces the name to the Sanskrit roots "bha" and "dra." The letter "bha" signifies "delusion" or "maya," while "dra" is used as a superlative meaning "the most" or "the greatest." Together, "bhadra" may mean "maha maya" or "great delusion." This delusion refers to the illusion of samsara, the endless cycle of birth and rebirth. Worship of the goddess Bhadrakali is thought to grant liberation from this grand delusion. Her severed head and sickle represent Bhadrakali freeing devotees from the ego and enabling moksha or spiritual liberation. Hence, the goddess Bhadrakali dispels ignorance and frees individuals from the bonds of illusion.