15/11/2025
64 YOGINI :
The 64 Yoginis, known as Chausath Yogini in Hindi (from chausath meaning "sixty-four"), are a group of divine female entities revered in Hindu Ta***ic traditions. The term "Yogini" derives from the Sanskrit word yoginī, the feminine form of yogi, meaning a female practitioner or master of yoga and Ta**ra. However, in this context, Yoginis transcend mere human practitioners—they are supernatural beings, embodiments of Shakti (the divine feminine energy), and manifestations of the goddess Devi or Adi Parashakti. They are often described as attendants, aspects, or emanations of the supreme goddess, particularly Durga, Kali, or Parvati, and are linked to the Ashta Matrikas (eight mother goddesses).
According to Ta***ic texts like the Kaula Ta**ra and Puranas (e.g., Agni Purana, Kalika Purana, Skanda Purana), the 64 Yoginis originated from the eight Matrikas—Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshwari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi, Chamunda, and Narasimhi. Each Matrika is said to have manifested eight attendant Yoginis, resulting in the total of 64. These entities are believed to represent various powers, qualities, and aspects of the divine feminine, ranging from benevolence to ferocity. Their origins are traced back to the 6th–7th centuries CE, with their cult flourishing between the 9th and 12th centuries, rooted in both Vedic and non-Vedic (tribal and rural) traditions.
The Yoginis are also associated with other divine feminine groups, such as the Ten Mahavidyas (great wisdom goddesses) and Dakinis (sky-dancing attendants), reflecting their multifaceted nature. They are not a fixed set—different texts and temples list varying names and characteristics, indicating their adaptability to local traditions and cults.
Where Do They Belong?
The 64 Yoginis belong to the esoteric realm of Hindu Ta**ra, with their worship rooted in India, particularly in central and eastern regions. Their physical presence is most notably preserved in a handful of Chausath Yogini Temples, built between the 9th and 12th centuries, which are circular, roofless (hypaethral) structures designed for Ta***ic rituals. Key locations include:
Hirapur, Odisha: A 9th-century temple with 64 Yogini niches, featuring a central shrine to Mahamaya.
Ranipur-Jharial, Odisha: Known for dancing Yogini statues, linked to Shaiva traditions.
Morena, Madhya Pradesh: An 8th-century temple with stark, imposing Yogini figures.
Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh: Features seated Yoginis, blending Brahmanical and Ta***ic styles.
Kamakhya, Assam: While not a dedicated Yogini temple, this Shakti Peeth invokes the 64 Yoginis in daily worship.
Beyond India, Yogini-like figures appear in Buddhist Ta**ra (e.g., as Dakinis) in Tibet and Southeast Asia, suggesting a broader cultural spread. Historically, their cult likely originated from rural grama devatas (village goddesses) and tribal deities, later integrated into Ta***ic Shaivism and Shaktism.
Who Are the Prominent Yoginis?
The names and prominence of the 64 Yoginis vary across texts and temples, with no universal list. Some recurring or notable Yoginis include:
Bahurupa: Known for her many forms, symbolizing versatility.
Tara: Associated with wisdom and liberation, akin to the Mahavidya Tara.
Chhinnamastika: A fierce form linked to the Mahavidya of the same name, representing self-sacrifice and transcendence.
Kalaratri: A dark, destructive form of the goddess, tied to time and death.
Varahi: A boar-headed Matrika-derived Yogini, embodying strength and protection.
Surapriya: "Lover of wine," reflecting the Yoginis’ Ta***ic rituals involving intoxicants.
Narmada and Yamuna: River goddesses, symbolizing purification and flow.
In some traditions, the Yoginis are grouped under the eight Matrikas, with each Matrika leading a subset of eight. However, temple inscriptions and Ta***ic texts like the Sri Matottara Ta**ra or Kularnava Ta**ra provide differing namavalis (name lists), often tailored to local practices.
Connection to Bhairava: They are often paired with the 64 Bhairavas (fierce forms of Shiva), symbolizing the union of male and female energies in Ta**ra.
Can Grahastis (Householders) Worship Them?
While Yogini worship is traditionally the domain of initiated Tantriks, grahastis (householders) can also venerate them, though with caveats. In orthodox Hinduism, Yogini Sadhana is considered esoteric and potentially dangerous due to its association with Vamachara practices, which contrast with Dakshinachara (right-hand path) suitable for householders. However:
Simplified Worship: Grahastis may honor the Yoginis through puja (devotional offerings) or recitation of their names (namavali) without delving into Ta***ic rituals.
Temple Devotion: Visiting Chausath Yogini temples and offering flowers, incense, or prayers is accessible to all devotees.
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