Hymn to Kali: Karpuradi Stotra

by John Woodroffe

Kali is a Hindu goddess with a long and complex history in Hinduism. Although sometimes presented as dark and violent, her earliest incarnation as a figure of annihilation still has some influence, while more complex Tantric beliefs sometimes extend her role so far as to be the Ultimate Reality (Brahman) and Source of Being. She is also known and revered as Bhavatarini ( redeemer of the universe Dakshineswar Kali Temple). Finally, the comparatively recent devotional movement largely conceives of Kali as a straightforwardly benevolent mother-goddess. Therefore, as with her association with the Deva (god) Shiva, Kali is associated with many Devis (goddesses) - Durga, Bhadrakali, Bhavani, Sati, Rudrani, Parvati, Chinnamasta, Chamunda, Kamakshi or kamakhya, Uma, Meenakshi, Himavanti, Kumari and Tara. These names, if repeated, are believed to give special power to the worshipper. She is the foremost Goddess among the Dasa Mahavidyas. (Quote from wikipedia.org)

About the Author

Sir John Woodroffe (1865 - 1936)
Sir John Woodroffe (1865-1936), also known by his pseudonym Arthur Avalon, was a British Orientalist whose work helped to unleash in the West a deep and wide interest in Hindu philosophy and Yogic practices.

Born on December 15th, 1865 as the eldest son of James Tisdall Woodroffe, Advocate-General of Bengal and his wife Florence, he was educated at Woburn Park School and University College, Oxford, where graduated in jurisprudence and the Bachelor of Civil Law examinations.

In 1890, He moved to India and enrolled as an advocate in Calcutta High Court. He was soon made a Fellow of the Calcutta University and appointed Law Professor of Calcutta University.He was appointed Standing Counsel to the Government of India in 1902 and two years late

124 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1913

About the author

Sir John George Woodroffe, who mostly published pseudonymously as Arthur Avalon, was a jurist and pioneering Orientalist, specializing in Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy. He was a Fellow of the Calcutta University and appointed Tagore Law Professor. He also served as Standing Counsel to the Government of India where he later was raised to the High Court Bench, eventually officiating as Chief Justice for seven years until retiring to England where he was Reader in Indian Law to the University of Oxford.

For his work as an Orientalist, see Arthur Avalon .

Reviews

[Sourabh Mathur · Rating 5 out of 5]

A profound and mystical text dedicated to Goddess Kali, attributed to the legendary sage Adi Shankaracharya. The Karpuradi Stotra is not just a devotional hymn, it is a spiritual invocation that blends tantra, bhakti, and non-dualistic philosophy into a compact and potent composition.

Each verse is layered with esoteric meaning and symbolic imagery. The language is bold, powerful, and deeply evocative. The hymn praises Kali in her most fearsome and compassionate forms, reminding the reader that true liberation comes not through fear, but through surrender to the divine feminine in her rawest form.

This is not casual reading. It is a meditative text meant to be studied, recited, and reflected upon. For those on the tantric path or with a serious interest in Shakta philosophy, it offers a gateway into inner transformation.

Highly recommended for spiritual seekers, Sanskrit enthusiasts, and those drawn to the intensity and grace of Ma Kali.

[Arshia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It feels suspicious to read a coloniser's translation and interpretation of an indigenous cultural/religious/philosophical text, especially since it was written during the period of colonisation, but I thought I'd give it a try anyway because I love Kali and I am always looking for literature on her.