Bhavani in Hindu mythology is considered as a ferocious goddess Shakti
or Devi. She connotes "giver of life", nature's power as well
the source of creative energy. She is even known by Karunaswaroopini,
meaning "filled with mercy". The other names by which is known
are Tulaja, Turaja, Tvarita and Amba.She was the tutelary deity of the Maratha leader, Shivaji. Due to this, she is worshiped in high reverence throughout Maharashtra. Legend says that the goddess slained the notorious demon, Mahishasura who had wrecked havoc upon the devas & the humans.
The other legend suggests that a demon camouflaged himself in the form of a wild buffalo, known as Mahisha, & took abode on the Yamunachala hill. The goddess slained the demon to reestablish peace &, thus, a temple devoted to her was built on the hill.