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The Kularnava-tantra is a significant Hindu text within the Shakta Tantras tradition, which emphasizes the worship of Shakti, the active, feminine power of the divine. These texts, similar in nature to the Puranas, theoretically cover philosophy, Yoga, ritual, and conduct, but often focus on spells, rituals, and symbols.123

The Shakta Tantras, which may have been influenced by Tantric Buddhism, typically center around the goddess, often identified with Durga. A key concept is kundalini, the coiled energy at the base of the spine that can be awakened through yogic practices to achieve spiritual release. The Kularnava-tantra itself is known for detailing "left-hand" practices, which can include ritual copulation. Other notable Shakta Tantras include the Kulachudamani-tantra and the Sharadatilaka-tantra.23

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