Camunda, dread goddess, is venerated and propitiated in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Her name derives from Canda and Munda, the two Ashuras she slew. Camunda, Demon killer, has the power to destroy the world with one glance. She dances the Dance of Destruction while playing a musical instrument whose neck is holy Mount Meru and whose gourd is the crescent moon. Her instrument is strung with the cosmic serpent. On a more mundane level, Camunda inflicts and heals disease. Those who venerate her receive her blessings of courage. Camunda sponsors practitioners of witchcraft and sorcery. She bestows victory over one’s enemies and success in war.
Camunda is identified with Parvati and Dur ga, but she is also venerated as an independent goddess in southern India.
ORIGIN:
India
MANIFESTATION:
Flames shoot from Camunda’s three eyes. She has four arms. She wears a garland of skulls and is covered with snakes. She travels with an entourage of Demons.
ICONOGRAPHY:
Camunda stands atop a corpse, lion, or owl.
ATTRIBUTES:
Chalice and knife
ELEMENT
Fire
COLOUR:
Red
SEE ALSO:
- Ashura
- Durga
- Kali
- Parvati
- Shiva
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.