Which Hindu goddess is the goddess of time and change? Kali is widely associated with time, transformation, death and destruction.
Kali is a major goddess in Hinduism and is especially prominent in Shaktism, Tantra and the Kalikula tradition. Her name is connected with kala, a Sanskrit word associated with time and death, and is also popularly linked with the meaning “black.” These associations express the consuming, transformative force of time rather than simple evil.
In the Devi Mahatmya, one of her best-known appearances occurs when she manifests from Durga’s wrath to defeat the demon Raktabija. Because every drop of his blood could create another demon, Kali drinks the blood before it reaches the ground. Her fierce imagery—dark skin, weapons, a garland of heads and a cremation-ground setting—symbolizes destruction of ignorance, ego and worldly attachment.
Kali is often confused with Durga because traditions may identify her as a form of Durga or Parvati. They are not interchangeable in every context. Kali is also revered as Kali Mata, the Divine Mother, and as a source of liberation.