The Legend of Tara

According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva carried the charred body of his consort Sati in grief-stricken rage after her self-immolation, Lord Vishnu cut her body into 51 pieces with his Sudarshan Chakra to calm Shiva. The places where these pieces fell became the Shakti Peethas. Tarapith is believed to be where Sati's third eye (or according to some texts, her navel) fell to earth.

The name “Tarapith” derives from “Tara” (the goddess) and “pith” (seat or abode). The goddess Tara is worshipped here in her Ugra Tara (fierce form) manifestation, depicted with four arms, standing on the supine body of Lord Shiva.