Shaktisme

Shaktisme, or Shakti worship, is a major Hindu tradition that centers on the Goddess as the feminine divine energy (Shakti). She is seen as the source of creation, sustenance, and destruction, and the supreme power in the universe.

Goddess forms include Durga, Kali, Parvati, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. In many Shakta schools the goddess is the highest principle, sometimes viewed as the sole divine, with Shiva as an aspect or consort. Others teach the unity of Shakti and Shiva, emphasizing the goddess as independent and supreme.

Key scriptures include the Devi Mahatmya (within the Markandeya Purana) and the Devi Bhagavata, along with the Lalita Sahasranama and various Shakta Upanishads and tantras. The goddess is described as Sat-Chit-Ananda (truth, consciousness, bliss) and as the universal energy permeating all beings.

Practices emphasize goddess-centered puja, mantra, and yantra, and, in many traditions, tantric rites. Major festivals are Durga Puja and Kali Puja; Navaratri is observed as a nine-night celebration of the goddess in her nine forms.

Shaktism has ancient roots in India, with strong presence in eastern and central regions such as Bengal and Assam. It coexists with Shaivism and Vaishnavism and has influenced temple architecture, liturgy, and ritual practice.