Shiva also known as Mahadeva is one of the main deities of Hinduism. With pre-Vedic roots, Shiva is an amalgam of various non-Vedic deities, such as the Rigvedic storm god Rudra. In the Trimurti, which includes Vishnu and Brahma, Shiva is referred to as the Destroyer. He is the Supreme Lord who creates and protects the universe. In the Shakta tradition, a goddess is referred to as the Devi, with Parvati as the equal partner of Shiva.

There are many depictions of Shiva in both benevolent and ferocious aspects. In his noble aspects, he is depicted as a wise and ascetic living on Mount Kailash with his wife, Parvati, and their two children.

Shiva is a deity worshipped in various Hindu countries and traditions like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. He is depicted with a serpent around his neck, with the moon’s crescent moon and the holy river Ganges flowing from his forehead.

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