In this episode of “5 Minutes,” Dr. Robert Svoboda explores the birth of Kali as described in the Devi Mahatmya, also known as the Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path.
There is more than one traditional account of Kali’s origin, but this narration follows the Devi Mahatmya, one of the most revered scriptures devoted to the Divine Mother. The text contains three principal stories about the Goddess. The first centers on Mahamaya, the second on Durga, and the third introduces a number of goddesses, among whom is Kali.
The story begins with the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, who have conquered the universe. As often happens in such stories, the celestial beings, unable to overcome the demons themselves, appeal to the Goddess for help. She reassures them not to worry and, according to the unfolding of karma, chooses to deal with the demons gradually rather than all at once.
The first to confront the Goddess is the general Dhumralochana, whose name means “Smoky-Eyed.” He is quickly destroyed, along with his army, which greatly enrages Shumbha. In response, he summons his two most trusted generals, Chanda and Munda, ordering them to capture the Goddess and drag her to him by the hair.
At this time, the Goddess appears as Ambika, a name that means “the Little Mother.” Though her appearance is gentle and serene, Chanda and Munda advance toward her without hesitation.
As they approach, Ambika becomes intensely wrathful. Her brow furrows, and from that very brow springs Kali, fully formed, much as Athena is said to have emerged from the brow of Zeus in Greek mythology.
Kali appears as a terrifying figure. She is emaciated, with a massive head, gleaming razor-sharp teeth, and carries various weapons, including the unusual Khatvanga, a staff surmounted by a skull. She howls, laughs, and fills the battlefield with dreadful sounds.
Dr. Svoboda especially appreciates the Sanskrit verse describing her appearance. Although its full force is difficult to capture in translation, it portrays Kali laughing with tremendous, terrifying power. Her fierce laughter, frightful form, and blazing teeth strike fear into all who witness her.
Without hesitation, Kali attacks and slays Chanda and Munda.
She then carries their severed heads to Ambika and declares, “I have killed Chanda and Munda. You will kill Shumbha and Nishumbha.”
Ambika responds playfully, saying that because Kali has slain Chanda and Munda, she shall henceforth be known not only as Kali, but also as Chamunda, a name formed from the names of the two defeated generals.
Thus, according to the Devi Mahatmya, Kali receives one of her most celebrated names, Chamunda, through her destruction of Chanda and Munda in the battle against the forces of adharma.