6. One South Indian tradition tells of a dance contest between Shiva and Kali. After defeating the two demons
Sumbha and Nisumbha, Kali takes up residence in a forest. With fierce companions she terrorizes the surrounding
area. One of Shiva's devotees becomes distracted while performing austerities, and asks Shiva to rid the forest of the
destructive goddess. When Shiva arrives, Kali threatens him, claiming the territory as her own. Shiva challenges Kali
to a dance contest, and defeats her when she is unable to perform the energetic Tandava dance.