Kali facts for kids
Kali is a powerful goddess in Hinduism. She is seen as an important form of the goddess Parvati. Kali is known as the goddess of creation, destruction, and time. She is often shown as dark and strong. Many Hindu groups, especially those who follow the Shakta tradition, believe she is the ultimate truth of the universe.
Kali is often shown with Lord Shiva, her husband, and is sometimes seen standing on his body. She is connected to other Hindu goddesses like Durga and Chamunda. Kali is also one of the ten fierce goddesses known as the Mahavidyas.
What Does the Name Kali Mean?
The name Kali comes from the Sanskrit word kāla. This word has several meanings, including "black," "time," and "death." Kālī is the feminine form of kāla. So, Kali means "the black one."
Because kāla also means "time," Kali is understood to be "time itself" or "beyond time." Since Lord Shiva is called Kāla, meaning "eternal time," Kali, his partner, is also seen as "the Time" or the "Controller of Time." This is why Kali is known as the goddess of time and change.
She has many other names, such as Kālarātri, which means "black night," and Kālikā, meaning "relating to time." Another name is Bhadrakali, which refers to a gentler side of Kali.
Images for kids
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In some parts of India, Kali's long tongue is seen as a sign of embarrassment because her foot is on her husband's chest.
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A Kali Yantra, a special symbol used in worship.
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An idol of Goddess Kali before being immersed in the Hooghly River.
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Tröma Nagmo, a form of Kali in Tibetan Buddhism.
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The Rolling Stones' famous logo, inspired by Kali's outstretched tongue.
See also
In Spanish: Kali para niños
