Ugratara

Ugratara is a prominent goddess in Tantric traditions of Hinduism, particularly revered in Bengal and Assam. She is an aspect of the Devi, the Supreme Goddess, and is often considered a fierce form of Tara. The name Ugratara itself signifies her "fierce" or "terrible" nature, suggesting a powerful and formidable deity.

In iconography, Ugratara is often depicted with a fearsome countenance, sometimes with disheveled hair, a dark complexion, and an emaciated or swollen body. She may be shown standing on a corpse or a lion, symbolizing her victory over ego and mortality. Her iconography can vary, with some depictions showing her with multiple heads or arms, each holding symbolic objects.

The worship of Ugratara is primarily found within the Shakta tradition, where she is invoked for protection, power, and the destruction of obstacles and negative forces. She is believed to possess immense transformative energy, capable of both granting boons and dispelling evils. Her mantra is considered potent and is chanted by devotees seeking her blessings. Ugratara's mythology often involves her emerging from the ocean or the cosmic void to combat powerful demons or to save the universe. Her worship emphasizes the intense and unbridled aspects of the divine feminine.