In the Hindu Tantric tradition, Eight strong mother goddesses are revered as Ashtamatrika (Ashta Matrudevi). These goddesses are thought to be the guardians of all of creation and different manifestations of Adi Shakti. In Nepal, particularly among the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley, Ashtamatrika holds particular religious and cultural significance. Ashtamatrika is said to guard temples, cities, villages, and the entire community. In numerous festivals, pujas, dances, and religious rites, Ashtamatrika is specifically honored. Additionally, Ashtamatrika plays a significant role in traditional religious dances, such as Bhaktapur’s Navadurga Gana Naach.
The eight goddesses of the Ashtamatrikas:
- Brahmani – Brahma’s power, goddess of creation and knowledge.
- Maheshwari – Goddess of Lord Shiva’s power, strength, and protection.
- Kumari (Balkumari) – Goddess of Lord Kumar’s (Karthikeya) power, valor, courage, and youthfulness.
- Vaishnavi (Bhadrakali) – Goddess of Lord Vishnu’s power, nurturing, and protection.
- Barahi – Goddess of Lord Varaha’s power, prosperity, courage, and victory.
- Indrayani – Goddess of Lord Indra’s power, leadership, strength, and opulence.
- Mahakali – The fierce form of Goddess Durga, the goddess who destroys evil forces.
- Mahalakshmi – Goddess of wealth, prosperity, good fortune, and opulence.
Since ancient times, people in Nepal have worshipped the Ashta Matrika. The Kathmandu Valley is home to numerous Ashta Matrika temples and Peethas. Worshiping these goddesses is seen by devotees as bringing health, safety, prosperity, peace, and protection from evil powers. The Ashta Matrika is still revered and devotedly worshipped as a priceless legacy of Nepal’s religious, cultural, and Tantric traditions.
