Kapali

Kapali is a name deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and religious traditions. It is primarily an epithet for the Hindu deity Shiva, particularly in his fierce and ascetic forms. The name refers to Shiva's association with skulls, often depicted wearing a garland of skulls or carrying a skull-bowl (kapala). This imagery symbolizes his mastery over death and his role as a destroyer of evil and illusion.

The name Kapali is found in various ancient Hindu texts, including the Puranas and Tantric literature, where Shiva is revered in this form. It signifies his detachment from worldly desires and his ultimate power. While primarily an epithet for Shiva, it has been adopted as a personal name, especially in regions with strong Shaivite traditions, reflecting devotion to the deity.