Shaktism is a Hindu tradition that focuses on the worship of the Divine Mother, also known as Shakti or Devi. This branch of Hinduism places great importance on the feminine aspect of divinity and sees the Divine Mother as the ultimate source of all creation, preservation, and destruction.

The word "Shakti" is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "power" or "energy," and it is believed that the entire universe is made up of this divine energy. In Shaktism, the Divine Mother is seen as the embodiment of this energy and is worshipped in various forms such as Durga, Kali, and Parvati.

One of the core beliefs of Shaktism is that the Divine Mother is the equal and complementary counterpart of the male deities in Hinduism. She is not seen as inferior or secondary, but rather as the source of their power and strength. This belief is reflected in the popular saying, "Shiva without Shakti is like a shava (corpse) without shakti (life force)."

The worship of the Divine Mother in Shaktism is often characterized by rituals and practices that involve the use of mantras, yantras (sacred geometric diagrams), and mudras (hand gestures) to invoke her divine presence. These rituals are believed to help devotees connect with the Divine Mother and receive her blessings and protection.

Shaktism also places a strong emphasis on the concept of Shakti as Kundalini, the primal energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine. Through various spiritual practices such as yoga and meditation, Shaktism aims to awaken this energy and channel it towards spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Another important aspect of Shaktism is the worship of the Navadurga, a group of nine forms of the Divine Mother who represent different aspects of her power and energy. Each form is associated with a specific day of the Navratri festival, which is dedicated to the worship of the Divine Mother.

In addition to the worship of the Divine Mother, Shaktism also emphasizes the importance of the guru-disciple relationship. The guru is seen as a channel for the Divine Mother's grace and teachings, and it is believed that without the guru's guidance, one cannot fully understand and experience the true power of Shakti.

In conclusion, Shaktism is a vibrant and diverse tradition within Hinduism that celebrates the power and energy of the Divine Mother. It offers a unique perspective on the concept of divinity and provides devotees with a path to connect with the ultimate source of all creation.