The description of Goddess Kali has always seemed untamed to us. She is pictured as a fierce, bold and unapologetic woman wearing a garland of skulls. Yet, since time immemorial, women have been schooled and disciplined to remain calm and obedient, and to hide their unruly nature.

Goddess Kali symbolizes Shakti , the personification of feminine energy and power. She directly challenges the submissive expectations imposed on women. There is a deep irony in the fact that while we worship Goddess Kali during Kali Puja, which coincides with Diwali in many parts of the country, society continues to discriminate against, lecture and harass women daily.

The modern perception of women fails to align with the symbolic representation of Goddess Kali in many ways. The very rage she embodies is severely criticised by men when displayed by the women in their lives. Society has consistently praised women who remain quiet and adhere to traditional beauty standards.…