Tantra
in Hindu sacred literature, one of the compositions, great in number and in some cases extensive, always assuming the form of a dialogue between Siva and his bride in one of her many forms, but chiefly as Uma and Parvati, in which the goddess asks her consort for directions how to perform certain ceremonies. In giving her the necessary prayers and incantations he warns her that it must on no account be divulged to the profane. The Tantrikas, or followers of the Tantras, consider them a fifth Veda, and attribute to them equal antiquity and superior authority. They were composed chiefly in Bengal and eastern India. The Saktas are great supporters of the Tantras .