Kali or "the black one" is the goddess symbolizing
dissolution and destruction in Hindu mythology. She is the destroyer of
ignorance who maintains the world order while blesses and frees all
those who are seeking knowledge of God. Her name is associated with
Agni, according to Vedas, who is the god of fire & is known for
seven flickering tongues of flame. Out of these, Kali was the black,
horrible tongue. This is considered to be the origin for the name "Kali",
who is the grim consort of Shiva. When talking about her appearance,
then her fearsome baleful eyes, protruding tongue, and four arms along
with a bloody sword in her upper left hand & a severed head in her
lower left hand, makes it the most fearful picture. She makes the
gesture of fearlessness through her upper left hand while the lower
right hand confers benefits. She is always found draped with a chain of
severed human heads & a belt of dismembered arms gives a frightening
look to her persona. She is often shown in a dancing mode or in sexual
union with Shiva. And she stands upon the supine from her husband to
depict her Bhavatarini image, i.e. the redeemer of the universe. Kali is known by names like Kalikamata ("black earth-mother") and Kalaratri ("black night") as well.