The Ashta Matrikas are worshipped in Shakta, Shaiva, and Tantric traditions, each of the devi’s represents a specific power that she holds to bless her devotees. Often seen with Maa Durga in her war against demons like Shumbha and Nishumbha, The Astha Matrikas are fierce protectors and are invoked in rituals for protection, healing, and victory.
The Astha Martiks names and siddhis they represent
1. Brahmini – Represents wisdom and knowledge.
2. Vaishnavi – Represents preservation and protection.
3. Maheshwari – Represents destruction and transformation.
4. Indrani – Represents power and control over natural forces.
5. Kaumari – Symbolizes war and leadership.
6. Varahi – Symbolizes destruction of evil and restoration.
7. Chamunda or Chandi – Represents fierce destruction and victory over demons.
8. Narasimhi or Pratyangira – Represents protection and ferocity.
There is a strong connection between the Ashta Matrikas and the 64 Yoginis (Chausath Yoginis) both represent divine feminine energies and are associated with esoteric worship, fierceness, and protection from evil.
There are some distinction between the two, While the 64 Yoginis are the attendants of Bhairava, fierce in their nature, they are independent goddesses with mystical and yogic powers associated with Tantric and secretive rituals. The 64 Yogini are worshipped in open-air circular temples, unique to Yogini worship, the Ashta Matrikas are associated with different gods and are manifestations of goddesses associated with male deities and worshipped in mainstream hindu temples. The male deities they represent are as follows.
1. Brahmini – Represents Brahma.
2. Vaishnavi – Represents Vishnu.
3. Maheshwari – Represents Shiva.
4. Indrani – Represents Indra.
5. Kaumari – Represents Murgan.
6. Varahi – Represents Varaha, Vishnu’s boar incarnation .
7. Chamunda or Chandi – Represents Maa Durgs / Kali
8. Narasimhi or Pratyangira – Represents Narasimha Vishnu’s lion incarnation
The Ashta Matrikas and 64 Yoginis are closely linked. In Tantra The Ashta Matrikas are considered to be the original or primary yoginis, from which the 64 Yoginis later emerged. Tantra practitioners invoke both Matrikas and Yoginis in their worship of Kali, Bhairavi, and Durga.
The Astha Martrikas and 64 Yoginis are a important part of Tantric rituals, as they are providers of Siddhi’s and spiritual transformation for their devotees.
