Shri Devi Rangjung Gyalmo & Bernagchen Mahakala: important protector deities of the Karma Kagyu Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

Shri Devi Rangjung Gyalmo & Bernagchen Mahakala as a couple sit astride a donkey atop a sun disc and surrounded by orange, red and yellow flames of pristine awareness. The unique aspect to these combined wrathful protectors is the female - Shri Devi - is the principal iconographic figure facing forward, or outward in a painting or sculpture. Bernagchen Mahakala is the secondary figure embracing Shri Devi and looking towards her.

At the top center is Karma Pakshi - the 2nd Karmapa. On the left is the Indian Mahasiddha Dombi Heruka embracing a consort and riding a top a pregnant tiger. On the right side is Vajrayogini in her form as Vajravarahi, red in colour, standing in a dancing posture.

Jeff Watt 8-2011