Who are the Ten Mahavidyas and What Are the Benefits of Worshiping Them?

The Ten Mahavidyas are highly Siddha forms of Goddess Parvati in her tantric aspect. In tantric scriptures, the special puja of these Ten Mahavidyas has been of great significance. It is said that from the smallest atom to the largest star in the universe, these Ten Mahavidyas control everything. In some traditions, the Ten Mahavidyas are also considered special forms of Goddess Durga. Let’s explore who these Ten Mahavidyas are and the benefits of their worship.

The Ten Mahavidyas (Das Mahavidya):

1. Mahakali

The first form among the Ten Mahavidyas is Mahakali. With the blessings of the goddess, one achieves success in all endeavors. Though her form is associated with profound darkness, she illuminates the lives of her devotees. Her grace brings confidence, courage, valor, and opulence.

Mantra:
Om Kreem Kreem Kreem Hum Hum Hreem Hreem Dakshine Kalika
Kreem Kreem Kreem Hum Hum Hreem Hreem Svaha

2. Tara Devi

The second Mahavidya is Tara. Her form is somewhat similar to that of Kali. The goddess is depicted wearing a tiger skin. It is said that the first devotee of the goddess was the sage Vasistha. Her blessings grant knowledge, financial gains, and eloquence.

Mantra:
Om Hreem Streem Hum Phat

3. Shodashi

The third Mahavidya is Mata Shodashi. She is also known as Lalita, Raja Rajeshwari, and Tripura Sundari, among other names. She is the supreme goddess of the Sri Kula. A person who worship her will never experience a lack of anything in life. Special worship of the goddess is performed on the Shree Yantra.

Mantra:
Om Aim Hreem Shreem Tripura Sundariyai Namah

4. Bhuvaneshwari

The fourth Mahavidya is Mata Bhuvaneshwari. She is worshipped as the embodiment of nature. She is believed to grant all types of spiritual attainments. As the presiding deity of the three worlds (Trilok), worshiping Bhuvaneshwari brings all types of pleasures.

Mantra:
Om Aim Hreem Shreem Namah

5. Bhairavi

The next Mahavidya is Mata Bhairavi. She is known by many names such as Tripura Bhairavi, Kole Bhairavi, and Rudra Bhairavi. Mata Bhairavi removes fear and greatly enhances a person’s courage.

Mantra:
Om Hreem Bhairavi Kalom Hreem Svaha

6. Dhumavati

In the Ten Mahavidyas, Mata Dhumavati holds a special place. Her worship removes poverty, illness, and sorrow. In some places, she is referred to as the widow form of the goddess. She is described in the Rigveda as Sutrā, meaning one who bestows complete happiness.

Mantra:
Om Dhoom Dhoom Dhoomavati Devyai Svaha

7. Chhinnamasta

Mata Chhinnamasta, or Chhinnamastika, may appear fearsome, but she is regarded as the benefactor of all. Her blessings fill the granaries and bring all kinds of happiness into one’s life.

Mantra:
Shreem Hreem Kleem Aim Vajra Vairochaniyae Hum Hum Phat Svaha

Baglamukhi

Mata Baglamukhi is the eighth Mahavidya among the Ten. She has a special affinity for the color yellow, which is why she is also known as Peetambara. She is the goddess of stambhan (halt) and her grace destroys all enemies.

Mantra:
Om Hleem Baglamukhi Devyai Hleem Om Namah

9. Matangi

Devi Matangi is the ninth Mahavidya. Her worship enhances one’s magnetic attraction. Mata Matangi is the goddess of arts and is believed to grant desired boons to devotees. She is worshipped for achieving all forms of happiness, mastery in arts, and success in endeavors.

Mantra:
Om Hreem Aim Bhagavati Matangeshwari Shreem Svaha

10. Kamala

In the hierarchy of Mahavidyas, Devi Kamala holds the last position. Her form is similar to Mahalaxmi. Worshiping Kamala grants all kinds of achievements. She has many mantras, but worshiping her with Shri Sukta is particularly significant. Her worship brings wealth, property, and prosperity.

Mantra:
Om Hreem Ashta Mahalakshmyai Namah