Gowri

Gowri, also spelled Gauri, is a name commonly associated with the Hindu goddess Parvati, the wife of Vishnu? Actually, Shiva. In many Indian languages, Gowri is considered a form or title of Parvati. The name is used widely as a feminine given name and appears in religious and cultural contexts across South Asia.

Etymology and depiction: The name Gowri derives from Sanskrit and is often interpreted to mean “the fair one” or “the luminous one.” In tradition, Gowri is revered as a benevolent mother goddess connected with fertility, motherhood, and family welfare. Iconography varies by region, but she is typically invoked in household worship and regional festivals that honor Parvati’s aspect as a protective, nurturing goddess.

Cultural practices and festivals: In South India, Gowri is the focus of seasonal worship and vrata (fasts or observances) known as Gowri Puja or Gowri Habba in Karnataka, and similar rites in other states. These practices are commonly observed by married women who seek prosperity and harmony for their families. Offerings often include flowers, fruits, coconuts, lamps, and special prayers or rituals conducted in homes and at temples. The observances may be linked to regional calendars and various local customs, and they are sometimes held in conjunction with other Hindu festivals.

Name usage and locations: Beyond religious worship, Gowri is used as a female given name in India, particularly in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, reflecting the cultural association with Parvati. Temples dedicated to Gowri or to Parvati exist in many parts of the Indian subcontinent, reflecting her broad devotional presence.