In most narratives, Kali is associated with change, destruction, and death. Let's delve deeper to understand this unique form of Goddess Parvathi, consort to Lord Shiva.
Time, as we know it, is a healer, a bringer of change, destruction, and eventually death and rebirth. It is an unstoppable force that remains constant among all elements. Change, whether good or bad, is inevitable. In various ancient Indian texts, time is personified as a deity during multiple phases, just like other elements. Time has witnessed all aspects of the creation and destruction of the universe.
Our ancestors cleverly related gods and goddesses to various elements, making these concepts easier to narrate and understand. Kali (Time) is the mother (Maa) and commander of time. She is one of the most powerful goddesses in Vedic philosophy.
Every aspect of our lives revolves around these deities, whether the five elements or time itself, making Maa Kali an essential form of our existence.
The Manifestation
The stories from the Puranas (ancient scriptures) narrate the manifestation of Maa Kali during difficult times. Raktabija, an asura (demon), in his quest to conquer the realms of the universe, created havoc everywhere. His strength lay in his ability to multiply with every drop of his blood that spilled on the ground. The Suras (devas/gods) sought refuge with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. In battle mode, Parvathi became Goddess Durga, who is invincible and unassailable. However, even Durga could not stop the multiplication of Raktabija. At this time, when all hope seemed lost, Parvathi transformed into Maa Kali, the ultimate force to counter the threat. She ensured no drop of Raktabija's blood spilled by drinking it, thus ending Raktabija and his horde.
Who is Maa Kali?
The Rage
Maa Kali is the fiercest of them all. When enraged, it is almost impossible for anyone to curb her immense power. This power is so overwhelming that Parvathi, the original form of this avatar, becomes lost in this state of self-manifestation. Only Lord Shiva can control her rage and bring her back to normalcy.
The Mother
In contrast, Maa Kali has a tender side. Her motherly love and care for her devotees are unquestionably pure. She blesses all who walk the path of truth and those who seek her. In fact, she is more accessible than any other goddess.
The Myth
Kali has been embroiled in controversies, thanks to mainstream media, especially films. The West was first introduced to Kali Maa in “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,” where the main antagonist, Mola Ram, embraces Kali for all wrongdoings, depicting her as evil. The movie, which contains many inaccuracies, painted a different picture of Kali for the world, much like Steven Spielberg did for sharks with “Jaws.” Before this film, some Indian cinema also portrayed Kali similarly, where a sorcerer uses Tantra (a doctrine/practice) to harness Kali's powers for his own ends and continue to do so in the modern films as well.
Conclusion
Maa Kali is both a giver and a taker, much like time. Though she can be filled with rage, she is equally innocent and believes anyone who seeks her, be it Mola Ram from “Temple of Doom” or a sorcerer from Indian cinema. Maa Kali is the true manifestation of oneself to tread on the path of truth. We believe our story for this game represents the purest form of this idea. It adds drama, excitement, and sheer joy in witnessing the magic of Kali. And behold, a myth becomes a legend, and a legend becomes reality.
