In Hindu tradition, the Sapthakannis, also known as the Saptamatrikas, are revered as the Seven Divine Mothers, sacred feminine manifestations of the supreme goddess created to protect the universe and destroy evil.
The word “Saptha” means seven, while “Kannis” refers to divine maidens or feminine beings. Together, they symbolise seven heavenly mothers who embody the powers of major deities and serve as protectors of cosmic order.
According to sacred belief, the Sapta Matrikas emerged during cosmic battles to aid the gods in defeating evil and restoring balance to the universe. Their divine presence symbolises the eternal triumph of good over darkness, as they stand fearlessly against demonic forces that threaten peace and harmony.
In some traditions, particularly in South India, Nepal, and Tantric worship, an eighth goddess is added to the group, making them the Ashtamatrikas or Eight Divine Mothers. Each of the Sapta Matrikas represents a unique aspect of divine power, carrying immense strength, wisdom, and protective energy.
The divine mothers are:
Brahmani / Brammi – The Goddess of Wisdom and Creation
Brahmani is worshipped as the divine energy of Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. She is beautifully depicted with four heads, symbolising the four sacred Vedas: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda reflecting her boundless wisdom and spiritual knowledge. Riding upon a graceful swan, the sacred vehicle of Brahma, Brahmani carries a kamandalu and rosary in her hands, signifying purity, meditation, and the nurturing force of life itself.
As the goddess of creation and knowledge, Brahmani is believed to bless her devotees with intelligence, wisdom, and mental clarity. Those who worship her seek her divine guidance in education, creativity, and the manifestation of righteous desires.
Mantram : Aum Dhevee Brahmani Vidmahe, Maha-shakthiyai Cha Dhimahee, Thanno Dhevee Prachodayath
Vaishnavi – The Preserver of Harmony and Protection
Vaishnavi is the sacred feminine power of Lord Vishnu, the protector and preserver of the universe. She is depicted riding the mighty Garuda, radiating majesty and divine strength. In her hands, she holds Vishnu’s celestial symbols, the conch, discus, club, and lotus, each representing righteousness, time, power, and purity.
Vaishnavi symbolises balance, peace, and the preservation of cosmic order. Devotees pray to her for protection from danger, stability in life, and harmony within their homes and relationships. She is believed to preserve the well-being of those who seek refuge in her grace.
Mantram : Aum Thaarksh Yathwajaaya Vidmahe, Chakra Hasthaya Dhimahee, Thanno Vaishnavi Prachodayath
Maheshwari – The Mother of Transformation
Maheshwari is the divine energy of Lord Shiva and embodies destruction, transformation, and spiritual awakening. She is often seen riding the sacred bull Nandi, carrying the trident of Shiva, and adorned with a crescent moon upon her forehead. Her three eyes represent her ability to perceive beyond the material world and see the deeper truths of existence.
Maheshwari teaches that destruction is not always an end, but often the beginning of transformation. Through her blessings, devotees gain strength to overcome ego, fear, and ignorance, allowing spiritual growth and self-realisation to flourish.
Mantram : Aum Vrushath-vajaaya Vidmahe, Miruga Hasthaya Dhimahee, Thanno Maheshwari Prachodayath
Kaumari – The Goddess of Courage and Victory
Kaumari represents the youthful and fearless energy of Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan. She is portrayed riding a radiant peacock and carrying the sacred vel, the divine spear of war and victory. Her youthful appearance reflects vitality, bravery, and boundless determination.
As the goddess of courage and discipline, Kaumari inspires her devotees to face life’s battles with confidence and righteousness. Worshippers seek her blessings for strength, success, and victory over both worldly and spiritual challenges.
Mantram : Aum Sikid-vajaaya Vidmahe, Vajra Hasthaya Dhimahee, Thanno Kowmari Prachodayath
Varahi – The Fierce Protector of Prosperity
Varahi is the powerful feminine force of Lord Varaha, Vishnu’s boar incarnation. She is depicted with the face of a boar and rides a mighty buffalo, symbolising strength, fearlessness, and grounding energy. Armed with a sword and shield, she stands as a fierce warrior and protector.
Varahi is deeply connected to the earth and represents fertility, nourishment, and material abundance. Devotees worship her to seek prosperity, remove obstacles, and protect themselves from evil influences and negativity.
Mantram : Aum Varaaha-muhi Vidmahe, Aanthra-shani Dhimahee, Thanno Yamuna Prachodayath
Indrani – The Queen of Power and Authority
Indrani, the divine energy of Lord Indra, is the embodiment of leadership, authority, and celestial power. She is depicted riding the majestic white elephant Airavata and holding the thunderbolt, symbolising command over storms and natural forces.
As the goddess of royalty and influence, Indrani is worshipped by those seeking confidence, leadership, and success in worldly affairs. Her blessings are believed to grant wisdom, strength, and the courage to lead through adversity.
Mantram : Aum Gajath-vajaayai Vidmahe, Vajra Hasthaya Dhimahee, Thanno Indrani Prachodayath
Chamunda – The Destroyer of Evil
Chamunda is one of the fiercest forms among the Sapta Matrikas, representing the destructive power of Devi herself. She is often portrayed in a skeletal and fearsome form, adorned with a garland of skulls and riding an owl, a creature symbolic of mystery and spiritual wisdom. In her hands she holds powerful weapons used to destroy darkness and evil.
Chamunda represents the destruction of ego, fear, illusion, and negativity. Though terrifying in appearance, devotees see her as a fierce protector who destroys evil forces and grants liberation from fear and suffering. She reminds humanity that destruction is often necessary for rebirth and transformation.
Mantram : Aum Krishna varnaya Vidhmahe, Soola Hasthaya Dhimahee, Thanno Kali Prachodayath
Narasimhi
Narasimhi is the divine energy of Lord Narasimha, the lion-man avatar of Vishnu. She symbolises fierce protection, divine rage against injustice, and spiritual defence. Devotees worship her for protection against danger, enemies, and intense negativity.
Even today, the Sapthakannis continue to be worshipped in many temples across Malaysia and beyond, often as guardian deities placed around temple sanctums or village boundaries to protect the land and its people from harm. More than just warrior goddesses, they are regarded as nurturing mothers who shield their devotees from danger, remove negativity, and guide the righteous through life’s challenges.
Source : thestonestudio , The Power Of Mantra
