Indian Gods and Goddesses

Buddha

Durga is the embodiment of feminine power in action and represents the dynamic transformative power of Parvati. Seen riding a tiger or lion, Durga�s many arms hold the weapons given her by male gods to lead the vanquishing of evil forces in the world. As a warrior goddess she destroys illusion and challenges mankind from it�s complacency.

Ganesha is the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati. He is the first god worshipped at the beginning of any new project or phase. He initiates one into spirituality. The first 8 beads on the mala are dedicated to Ganesha. He is the remover of all obstacles. He is known for his laughter, whimsy and benevolence. He gives grounding energy.

Hanuman, the monkey god, is the messenger of the gods. Is the symbol of absolute devotion and allegiance and dedication of purpose. He is also known for his great learning and asceticism. Known for being able to accomplish impossible feats.

Kali also represents feminine energy in its most decisive aspect. She is protective and nurturing. She represents the great womb of time. Time forces all things to grow and develop. Kali symbolizes transformation. She looks the most terrifying of the goddesses as she dances on her husband Shiva. She is the goddess of destruction. She annihilates so that life can start anew in a higher form. Kali teaches that if we give up attachments to the events of our lives, we gain mastery over time and experience unmanifest time, the eternal.

Krishna is an incarnation of Shiva. He is honored for his qualities of passion, valor and thoughtfulness. He was born as a cowherd, yet is revered as a wise advisor to all and represents salvation through love. 

Laksmi is worshipped as the supreme goddess providing for the health and welfare of the family. She is often surrounded by lotus flowers and elephants and her help is sought to provide wealth and prosperity.


Symbol of OM 

Parvati is the wife of Shiva and a powerful deity in her own right. It is said that Shiva�s strength comes from Parvati. In her many aspects, she symbolizes shakti, divine feminine energy. Parvati is the protector of pregnant women.

Rama, the hero of the epic the Ramayana, an incarnation of Vishnu. Married to Sita. He represents the triumph of good over evil.

Saraswati is the beautiful goddess draped in white or yellow robes and riding upon a snow white swan. She carries a book, prayer beads, a even (musical instrument), or a lute. She is the goddess of learning, art, dance, and music. Her special concern is for children and schools

Seven Sisters

Shiva, lord of music and king of the dance. His movements are the energy that drives the universe. He is revered as the perfect blend of all opposites: creator and destroyer of all existence, a protector who wards off evil. He is a dedicated husband and has deep love, passion and fidelity for his wife Parvati.

Vishnu is the all-pervading, preserver of the world, and the most worshiped of the Hindu gods. His main purpose is to ensure the triumph of good against evil. His most famous incarnations were Krishna and Rama.