Introduction
Throughout history, the goddess Kali has been present. She has traveled through time and space, to futures that mortals cannot comprehend, and to pasts that some can only dream of. Although she was once one of the most famous goddesses, praised by all humanity, very few know of her power now. Her stories have been passed down from generation to generation, portrayed in art and literature, but so few have ever captured the true spirit of Kali.
In a society where such a small number could recognize her, Kali is able to easily slip through humanity unseen. It is possible that anyone might have had a brief encounter with her, spoken to her while watching a blazing sunset. Although she walks among the humans, she is not always in her Godly form, nor does she always represent herself as Kali. The Goddess has many forms, you see. These personalities throughout time are what we will be visiting throughout this anthology.
First, we have Durga, the goddess of war, who values the triumphs of good over evil. Although she represents a calmer version of Kali, she is still a fiercely protective mother goddess and will use her power to liberate the oppressed.
Second, we have Kali, perhaps the more unhinged, yet most powerful version of herself. Although many fear her power, she was brought to creation to protect the innocent. She is a slayer of demons and evil, but just like the rest of the gods and goddesses, her emotions are just as strong as humans.
Lastly, we have Parvati, the most gentle and nurturing form of the three. Parvati is the goddess of love and marriage, fertility and children, and she thrives off of seeing humans go through the very experience that she governs.
These three versions of Kali have existed since the beginning of time, and have interacted with many historical figures and events. Thus, they all have their own stories to tell, each from a different era outside that of ancient India. I hope these tales can help illuminate the humanity in the goddesses, and share her stories with a new generation. Someday, you may even have an experience with this goddess yourself, and perhaps be able to recognize her from the stories you have read.