Goddess Dhumavathi
Goddess Dhumavati is the seventh form of the ten 'Mahavidyas'. In this form, the Goddess is portrayed as widow without Shiva. She has a smoky complexion, and rides a chariot with a flag bearing a crow or sometimes She is shown riding a crow. She is tall and wears pure white clothes. She is extremely unattractive and is associated with negative things like annoyance, greed, distress, failure, sorrow, loneliness and disgrace. She resides in burning grounds as well. But despite these depressive features, the Goddess blesses Her devotees with unnatural abilities and fulfills all their wishes.
Let us find out about the story of this Goddess who devoured Lord Shiva and became a widow.
Story Of Dhumavati
There are many versions of the story of Goddess Dhumavati. One of them says that once the Goddess Parvati felt very hungry. But there was no food available. So, She asked Her husband Lord Shiva to provide some food for Her. Shiva asked Her to wait for some time and went into meditation. Unable to control Her hunger, Goddess Parvati became furious, took the form of Kali and ate up Lord Shiva. Her extreme hunger is satisfied only by consuming Lord Shiva.
However, when Lord Shiva realised that Parvati has devoured Him, He becomes angry. As the third eye of Shiva opens, the Goddess is unable to contain the extreme energy. So, She turns smoky due to the burning energy of Shiva. She soon realises Her mistake and asks Lord Shiva for forgiveness. She disgorges Lord Shiva, who curses Her to wander like a widow.
Let us find out about the story of this Goddess who devoured Lord Shiva and became a widow.