Goddess Chamunda is the terrifying and fearsome aspect of the Divine Mother. She is considered as the furious form of goddess Durga, but she is kind to her true devotees. She is also known as Chamundi and Chamundeshwari. The word 'Chamunda' has been derived from two words, 'Chanda' and 'Munda'. Chanda and Munda were the two powerful generals of Shumbha and Nishumbha, who were killed by goddess Chamunda. She is closely associated with goddess Kali, another fierce aspect of Shakti.

The black or red colored goddess Chamunda is described as wearing a garland of severed heads or skulls of demons. She is described as having four, eight, ten or twelve arms, holding a Damaru (a small musical instrument), trident, sword, a snake, skull-mace, thunderbolt, a severed demon head and wine cup, filled with blood. She is also described as having a skeletal body with three eyes, a terrifying face, protruding teeth and long nails, who is depicted adorned by ornaments of bones, skulls, serpents and scorpions. Sometimes, a crescent moon is seen on her head. She is worshipped by ritual animal sacrifices along with offerings of wine and in the ancient times, human sacrifices were offered too. 

According to Hindu mythology, a terrifying goddess, who is known as Kali, emerged from the goddess Durga to kill the demons Chanda and Munda. She fought a fierce battle with the demons and with her immense power, the goddess killed the demons. After killing them, Kali offered the heads of Chanda and Munda to the goddess Durga, who became immensely pleased with the slaughter and blessed the goddess Kali that she would be known and worshipped as the goddess Chamunda.

According to another legend, goddess Chamunda appeared from the frown of the goddess Parvati to kill Chanda and Munda. As per this story, goddess Chamunda is viewed as a form of mother Parvati.

Temple of the goddess Chamunda is a renowned holy shrine of the Hindus, which is located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, on the bank of Baner River. The temple is nearly seven hundred year old and is dedicated to the goddess Chamunda. It is believed to be the abode of lord Shiva and Shakti. Therefore, it is also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham. There are statues of other Hindu god and goddesses as well. The place is full of natural beauty, peace and bliss. All paintings are courtesy of Art of Legend India.