The origins of Tantrism can be traced back to ancient India, where it emerged as a counterforce to the prevalent Vedic traditions. In contrast to the ascetic and ritualistic practices of the Vedic Brahmanism, Tantrism emphasized the direct experience of the divine and the harnessing of spiritual energy through various rituals, meditations, and yogic practices. It sought to bridge the gap between the transcendental and the immanent, embracing both the spiritual and the worldly aspects of existence.
One of the defining characteristics of Tantrism is its focus on the worship of Shakti, the primordial cosmic energy that animates the universe. Shakti is seen as the creative and transformative force, and through the worship of goddesses, practitioners seek to tap into this divine power. The feminine aspect of the divine is highly revered in Tantric philosophy, representing the dynamic interplay between masculine and feminine energies within each individual and the cosmos. Indian Religion