Tridevi

Tridevi refers to a trio of Hindu goddesses who embody the feminine aspect of the divine and are considered the complementary counterparts to the male Trimurti. In many Hindu traditions, the Tridevi comprises Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati (the latter often represented in forms such as Durga or Shakti). Each goddess is associated with a distinct domain—knowledge and arts, wealth and prosperity, and power and nurturing—together representing a integrated spectrum of worldly and spiritual well-being.

Saraswati is the goddess of learning, wisdom, music, and the arts. She is typically depicted dressed in white, often seated with a veena and a manuscript or mala, symbolizing purity, creativity, and study. Lakshmi embodies wealth, fortune, and abundance, and is commonly shown with lotus flowers and gold coins, signifying beauty, generosity, and material prosperity. Parvati, in her various forms, represents power, fertility, love, and divine energy; she is frequently shown with a calm, benevolent mien or as Durga in a warrior aspect, bearing weapons and often accompanied by a lion or tiger.

Worship of the Tridevi is widespread in Hindu practice, with regional and festival variations. Saraswati Puja is emphasized during Vasant Panchami and in cultural settings; Lakshmi is central to Diwali and other prosperity rites; Durga or Parvati is celebrated during Navaratri and Durga Puja. The concept underscores the idea that knowledge, wealth, and strength together sustain and protect life, education, culture, and spiritual development.

Across texts and art, the Tridevi are viewed as essential manifestations of Shakti, the divine feminine energy, illuminating the diverse aspects of existence.