Bhavani is a ferocious aspect of the Hindu goddess Parvati. Bhavani means “giver of life”, the power of nature or the source of creative energy. In addition to her ferocious aspect, she is also known as Karunaswaroopini, “filled with mercy”.
Bhavani was the tutelary deity of the Maratha leader Shivaji, in whose veneration he dedicated his sword, Bhavani Talwar. A temple to Bhavani at Tuljapur in Maharashtra dates back to the 12th century. The temple contains a one metre-high granite icon of the goddess with eight arms, holding weapons. She also holds the head of the demon, Mahishasura, whom she slew in the region which is known in the present day as Mysore.
