Tara (तारा)

Tara is revered as a powerful goddess counted among the Ten Mahavidyas and associated in Hindu Tantra with protection, guidance and transformative wisdom. Themes of protection, crossing danger, fierce compassion, speech and liberating wisdom are central to the way devotees, storytellers and temple traditions understand this figure. Recognisable attributes can include blue or dark form, sword, lotus, skull bowl and fierce Tantric imagery. Readers may also know the deity by names such as Tarini. Interpretations are not identical across India, and older texts, regional traditions and modern devotional practice may emphasise different aspects. A strong reference entry should therefore present the main tradition first, label regional variants clearly, and connect the mythology to symbols, festivals, temples and respectful worship practices that readers are likely to search for today.