Kali
Culture & Region
Hindu India
Time Period
c. 6th-10th century CE textual prominence; earlier folk roots
Domains
Timedestructiondeathego-annihilationliberationtransformation
Symbols & Animals
Garland of skullssevered headsswordlolling tongueblack/dark blue skincremation grounds
Sacred Sites & Cult Centers
- Kolkata (Kalighat)
- Kamakhya
- Dakshineswar
- Tarapith
Key Myths & Stories
Destroys demon Raktabija; dances on Shiva; Tantric worship; fearsome compassionate mother
Related Deities
Form of Devi; ≈ Erinyes/Furies (vengeance); Tantric central deity