The Feminine Faces of Goddess Saraswati: Maa Neela Saraswati and Maa Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati, the consort of Brahma and the embodiment of wisdom, grace, and learning, is revered in various forms within different traditions and cultures. Of particular interest are the tantric forms of the goddess, notably Maa Neela Saraswati and Maa Saraswati. These forms each hold unique attributes and roles in spiritual and cultural practices, contributing profoundly to the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology and devotion.
The Tantric Forms of Goddess Saraswati
Neela Saraswati and Saraswati are both revered forms of the goddess, each exhibiting distinct characteristics and serving different purposes within spiritual and cultural contexts. Neela Saraswati, in her tantric form, is a fierce representation that symbolizes the moksha or self-realization, encapsulating knowledge and enlightenment.
Neela Saraswati: The Fierce Form of Tara Devi
Neela Saraswati is an aspect of Tara Devi, who embodies the qualities of fierce incarnation or Ugratara. She is closely associated with the goddess Kali, the supreme form of love and embodiment of the divine feminine. Neela Saraswati is also often identified with Kamakhya, another form of the divine female energy.
Iconographically, Neela Saraswati is depicted as a short statured goddess with a protruding belly and a dark blue complexion. She is often portrayed with a fierce appearance, standing in the Pratyalidha pose, holding Khadga (sword), Indivara-lotus (lotus), Kartika-shear (scimitar), and a Kapala (skull) in her four hands. She wears a tiger skin at her waist and a garland of human heads around her neck. These attributes highlight her role in dispelling ignorance and imparting knowledge.
Maa Saraswati: The Liberal Goddess of Learning
In contrast, Maa Saraswati embodies the essence of learning, knowledge, and wisdom, symbolizing arts, music, science, and all forms of learning. She is often depicted as the patron of the fine arts, literature, and education, and is closely linked with the academic and intellectual pursuits.
The Transformative Powers of the Goddess
Maa Neela Saraswati emerged from the tantric tradition during a significant period of spiritual transformation. According to historical accounts, she appeared when the Bamachari tantraism spread rapidly. She approached a Brahmin family boy, Chakraborty, and bestowed upon him the talent to write the Chandipath in poetic and musical form, leading to the emergence of Bidyapati Chandidas, a renowned saint and poet.
The goddess's transformative powers are not limited to the literary realm; historical accounts suggest that Kalidas, a renowned poet, was once disliked by his wife for being dull, until he was granted the grace of Mata Saraswati, which elevated his status to becoming one of the greatest poets of India, penning famous works such as Shakuntala and Kumarasambhav.
The Spiritual Significance of Maa Neela Saraswati
Maa Neela Saraswati is revered for her ability to impart knowledge and wisdom, bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. Her fierce form symbolizes the necessity of overcoming obstacles and transcending ignorance, guiding her devotees towards moksha or self-realization.
Exploring the Cult of Tara
The cult of Tara, with its multifaceted manifestations, includes Neela Saraswati as one of its important forms. In tantric literature, Tara is described as the presiding deity of speech and the Shakti (energy) of Hiranya Garbha Saura Brahma. She is also known as the successful owner of Surya Pralaya, symbolizing the end of ignorance and the beginning of enlightened understanding.
Association with the Eight Yoginis
In the Tara cult, the goddess is surrounded by eight Yoginis, including Mahakali, Rudrani, Ugra Bhima, Ghira Bhramari, Maharatri, and Bhairavi. These Yoginis, representing different aspects of divinity, further enhance the rich symbolism of Neela Saraswati and the broader cult of Tara.
Conclusion
Maa Neela Saraswati and Maa Saraswati, though distinct in their manifestations, both play crucial roles in spiritual and cultural practices. Through their unique attributes and symbols, they guide devotees towards enlightenment, learning, and self-realization. The study of these forms of the goddess not only enriches our understanding of Hindu mythology but also serves as a profound source of inspiration and spiritual guidance.