Dakshinakali[edit]

Dakshina Kali, with Siva devotedly at her feet.

Dakshinakali is the most popular form of Kali in Bengal. [15] She is the benevolent mother, who
protects her devotees and children from mishaps and misfortunes. There are various versions for the
origin of the name Dakshinakali. Dakshina refers to the gift given to a priest before performing a
ritual or to one's guru. Such gifts are traditionally given with the right hand. Dakshinakali's two right
hands are usually depicted in gestures of blessing and giving of boons. One version of the origin of
her name comes from the story of Yama, lord of death, who lives in the south (dakshina). When
Yama heard Kali's name, he fled in terror, and so those who worship Kali are said to be able to
overcome death itself.[16][17]: 53–55 
Dakshinakali is typically shown with her right foot on Shiva's chest—while depictions showing Kali
with her left foot on Shiva's chest depict the even more fearsome Vamakali (typically shown with her
left foot on Shiva's chest). Vamakali is usually worshipped by non-householders. [18]
The pose shows the conclusion of an episode in which Kali was rampaging out of control after
destroying many demons. Lord Vishnu, Kali's brother, confronted Kali in an attempt to cool her
down. She was unable to see beyond the limitless power of her rage and Lord Vishnu had to move
out of her way. Seeing this the devas became more fearful, afraid that in her rampage, Kali would
not stop until she destroyed the entire universe. Shiva saw only one solution to prevent Kali's
endless destruction. Lord Shiva lay down on the battlefield so that Goddess Mahakali would have to
step on him. When she saw her consort under her foot, Kali realized that she had gone too far. Filled
with grief for the damage she had done, her blood-red tongue hung from her mouth, calming her
down. In some interpretations of the story, Shiva was attempting to receive Kali's grace by receiving
her foot on his chest.[17]: 36–39