Goddess Matangi is a primary form of the all-powerful Goddess known in Hinduism as Devi. She appeared most prominently as one of the Dasha Mahavidyas of Tantric Hinduism. She is worshipped for the attainment of great powers, power of speech, happiness in family life etc. She is the goddess of the Spoken Word, outward articulation of inner knowledge, all forms of art, music and dance. Thus, she is closely associated with goddess Saraswati. In certain interpretations, goddess Mathangi may be understood as something of a left-hand Saraswati Saraswati being is the patroness of the arts, sciences, literature and speech, music and dance. Mathangi also governs the same areas. So, she is invoked to achieve command over speech, creativity and knowledge, among others.

Goddess Matangi has three eyes and either a dark emerald or dark blue complexion. She is considered the daughter of the sage Matanga. She is said to be born as a chandala. Matanga was from the lowest caste known as Chandal, but did not believe in the orthodox caste system and achieved Brahmin hood through his karma. This likely suggests her origin as a tribal or non-Vedic deity. Generally, she is depicted as dark, very beautiful, sensuous with very large breasts, slender waist and long, flowing hair. She holds a goad, a noose, a sword and a sarod. She is an advisor of Tripur Sundari. Matangi resides in the throat chakra and is radiant like the Moon. 

Goddess Matangi possesses a moon on her forehead. The three-eyed goddess is seated on the crown decorated with jewels. Her luster is like a blue lotus and is destroyer of the demons by enchanting them first with her beauty and a fulfiller of every desire of her devotees. Being a goddess of the Tantra system, the crescent moon on goddess Matangi's forehead reminds the aspirant on the path of Tantra of the sacrifices, the devotees will have to make to obtain siddhis (supernatural powers).All paintings are courtesy of Art of Legend India.