Sapta Matrikas: The 7 Feminine Energies in Hinduism that Reclaim Motherhood

Who are Sapta Matrikas?

The Sapta Matrikas are seven divine mothers in Hinduism, representing the female energies of different goddesses. Each goddess carries unique powers, weapons, and mantras. They are worshipped for protection, blessings, the removal of negativity, and the granting of strength in spiritual life.

Sapta Matrikas in Hinduism

The Sapta Matrikas are mentioned in many ancient Hindu scriptures, like the Devi Mahatmya (Markandeya Purana), Varaha Purana, Matsya Purana, Agni Purana, and Devi Purana. These Matrikas are the powerful companions of Goddess Durga. Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshwari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi, and Chamunda are the seven matrikas in Hinduism.

Brahmani

Brahmani is the Shakti, or divine feminine energy of the creator, Lord Brahma. She is depicted with four heads, six hands and rides a swan. Brahmani, known for her wisdom and creation, holds a rosary, an ascetic water pot and the Vedas in her hand.

Colour: Yellow

Mantra: ॐ ऐं ब्रह्मण्ये नमः

Vaishnavi

The divine feminine power of Lord Vishnu is Vaishnavi, who rides Garuda, known for protection, balance, and preservation. Devotees worship her for stability in life. She carries a chakra, a shankha, a mace, and a lotus. Prasads to offer Devi are sweets, fruits, and tulsi.

Colour: Blue

Mantra: ॐ वैष्णवी मातृकाये स्वाहा

Maheshwari

Maheshwari is a feminine energy of Lord Shiva. She rides Nandi, carries the trident, drum, and serpent, symbolizing power and destruction of evil. She had five faces and three eyes on each face. Devotees offer milk and bel leaves as prasad.

Colour: White

Mantra: त्रिशूलचंद्रहिधरे महावृषभवाहिनी। माहेश्वरीस्वरूपेण नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥

Indrani

Indrani, the wife of Lord Indra, is fierce and radiant. She rides the elephant Airavata and wields a vajra as her weapon. Devotees pray to her for leadership, success, and prosperity. Offerings include flowers, fruits, and sweets as prasada.

Colour: Pink

Mantra: ॐगजथ्वजयैविद्महेवज्रहस्तय धीमहितन्नो इन्द्राणी प्रचोदयात्

Kaumari

The Shakti Roop of Lord Kartikeya is Kaumari. Her vahan is a peacock and carries a spear and represents youthful energy, war, and courage. Offerings include milk, laddus, and prasada, making her a divine guardian for devotees.

Colour: Red

Mantra: ॐ मां कौमार्यै नमः

Varahi

Varahi, the goddess with a boar head, represents Lord Varaha's power. She rides a buffalo and is armed with a weapon, sword, and plough. Her followers donate grains, sweets, and prasada. She is revered for her power, wealth, and protection from negativity.

Colours: Green, red, and yellow

Manta: ॐ ऐं ह्रीं श्रीं ॐ नमो वाराही नमो नमः

Chamunda

Chamunda is the fierce form of Devi, symbolizing the destruction of demons. She carries a skull, trident, and sword, riding a corpse or lion. She is worshipped for victory over evil, removing fears, and spiritual awakening. Devotees offer red flowers and jaggery as prasad.

Colour: Red or black

Manta: ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे