Goddess Tara, a revered deity in both Hinduism and Buddhism, embodies compassion, protection, and liberation. Known as the “Star” or “Savioress,” she guides her devotees through the darkness of ignorance and suffering, leading them towards enlightenment and spiritual awakening. With roots in ancient Indian traditions, Tara’s worship has spread far and wide, captivating the hearts of millions with her boundless love and grace.  

Tara in Hindu Tradition

In Hinduism, Tara is primarily recognized as one of the ten Mahavidyas, the wisdom goddesses who represent the diverse aspects of the divine feminine. She is considered a form of Adishakti, the primordial cosmic energy, and is closely associated with Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Tara’s prominence in Hindu tantric traditions highlights her fierce and transformative power, capable of destroying ignorance and illusion.  

Forms and Iconography

Tara is often depicted in various forms, each with its unique iconography and symbolism. Some of her most prominent forms include:  

• Ugra Tara: This fierce form of Tara is associated with destruction and overcoming obstacles. ¹ She is depicted with a dark complexion, a garland of skulls, and a terrifying expression, symbolizing her power to destroy negativity and protect her devotees from harm.

• Neela Saraswati: This form of Tara is associated with wisdom, knowledge, and eloquence. She is depicted with a blue complexion, holding a lotus flower, a book, and a rosary, symbolizing her power to bestow wisdom and learning.

• Ekajata: This form of Tara is associated with solitude and spiritual practice. She is depicted with a single braid of hair, symbolizing her focus on inner contemplation and her connection to the divine.

Tara’s Mantra and Worship

Tara’s mantra, “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha,” is a powerful invocation that is believed to invoke her blessings and protection. Chanting this mantra with devotion and sincerity can help to remove obstacles, overcome fears, and attain spiritual growth.  

Tara is worshiped in various ways, including through pujas, homas, and meditation. Her devotees offer her flowers, incense, and other sacred items, expressing their gratitude and seeking her blessings. The Tarapith temple in West Bengal, India, is a major pilgrimage site for Tara devotees, where she is worshiped as a fierce and compassionate mother goddess.

Tara in Buddhist Tradition

In Buddhism, Tara is revered as a bodhisattva, an enlightened being who has vowed to postpone their own enlightenment to help all sentient beings achieve liberation. She is known as the “Mother of all Buddhas” and is considered a manifestation of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion.  

Forms and Iconography

Tara is depicted in various forms in Buddhism, each with its unique symbolism and significance. Some of her most prominent forms include:  

• Green Tara: This form of Tara is associated with active compassion and protection from fear and danger. She is depicted with a green complexion, holding a blue lotus flower, symbolizing her readiness to help those in need.
• White Tara: This form of Tara is associated with healing, longevity, and peace. She is depicted with a white complexion, holding a white lotus flower, symbolizing her purity and her power to heal physical and mental ailments.
• Twenty-One Taras: This tradition describes twenty-one different forms of Tara, each with its unique mantra and iconography. These forms represent the diverse aspects of Tara’s compassion and her ability to help beings in various ways.

Tara’s Mantra and Practice

Tara’s mantra, “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha,” is also widely used in Buddhist traditions. Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke Tara’s blessings and protection, helping to overcome obstacles and attain spiritual awakening.  

Tara’s practice in Buddhism often involves visualization, mantra recitation, and meditation. Through these practices, devotees cultivate compassion, wisdom, and the aspiration to help all beings achieve liberation.  

Tara’s Enduring Legacy

Goddess Tara’s enduring legacy lies in her boundless compassion and her unwavering commitment to helping all beings. Her presence in both Hinduism and Buddhism highlights her universal appeal and her ability to transcend religious boundaries. As the “Star” who guides her devotees through the darkness, Tara continues to inspire countless individuals on their spiritual journeys, leading them towards enlightenment and liberation.  

Tara’s Influence on Art and Culture

Tara’s influence extends beyond religious practices and into the realms of art and culture. Her image has been depicted in countless paintings, sculptures, and other art forms, each capturing her beauty, grace, and power.  

In literature, Tara is often portrayed as a compassionate and wise goddess, who intervenes to help those in need. Her stories and legends have been passed down through generations, inspiring devotion and admiration.  

Tara’s presence can also be felt in various cultural traditions, such as music, dance, and festivals. Her devotees celebrate her with joy and reverence, expressing their gratitude for her blessings and her guidance.

Tara’s Message for the Modern World

In today’s world, where suffering and conflict continue to plague humanity, Tara’s message of compassion and liberation remains as relevant as ever. Her teachings remind us of the importance of kindness, empathy, and the pursuit of inner peace.

Tara’s example inspires us to overcome our fears and insecurities, to embrace our inner strength and wisdom, and to work towards creating a more compassionate and just world. By following in her footsteps, we can all become stars of compassion, radiating love and kindness to all beings.