The great lord Mahadeva is also known as Shambhu, Hara, Pinakadhrik (bearer of the axe), Mrityunjaya (conqueror of death). Mahadeva is the spouse of Shakti. He is often called as Mahakala, Bhairava(the terrible) or the Rudra.

Sometimes Mahadeva is represented as a mendicant or Sadhu. His matted lock of hair is adorned with crescent moon, from which the streams of river Ganga descend. The serpent surrounds his arms and neck, while he also wears Rudraksha beads. Mahadeva`s body is smeared with ashes as that is all that remains at the adjournment of the universe. His consciousness is controlled by a third eye on his forehead. His right hand shows a `Mudra` which disperses fear while his left hand holds the trident. The trident of Mahadeva is the symbol of three worlds. The Damru is bound on the trident. Mahadeva wears a tiger skin and also sits on the tiger skin and carries a `Kamandalu` or sacred water pot.

Mahadeva has five faces, representing Ishana, Tatpurusha, aghora, Vamadeva and Sadyojata. His eightfold form represents eight directions. Mahadeva together with his consort Shakti is called Ardhanarishvara. The Devi or female part of Ardhanarishvara is the voluptuous form while the other half is a terrifying fierce male.

Mahadeva is the lord of all beings of the underworld, including Bhutas (elementals). Pretas ( ghosts) and Pisachas (flesh eaters).Sometimes Mahadeva is pictured to sit on a horse, followed by his entourage of Siddhas(accomplished ones), Bhairavas (terrifying forms) and Yogis. Mahadeva is also depicted as Rudra, which can be identified with the star Sirius (Sothis) and is a great hunter.

Mahadeva is often worshipped as Lingam, which is the symbol of male power and fertility.