Chausath Yogini Temple in Bhubaneswar

Chausath Yogini Temple, also known as Mahamaya Temple, is supposed to be built by Queen Hiradevi of Bhauma dynasty during the 9th century. It is the smallest among the other Yogini temples in India with a diameter of thirty feet and a height of eight feet. The architectural style of the temple is circular while the material used for its construction is sandstone. It is believed that the Yogini traditions are tantric in nature which is associated with the rural and tribal traditions in India. The presiding deity of the temple is Mahamaya who is seen to be adorned in a red cloth and vermilion. There are 60 niches present in the walls of the temple where each one represent the Yogini statue.The central pillar, also known as Chandi Mandap, is adorned by three yoginis with four Bhairavas while the other three are sculpted in sitting posture and one in standing, known as Ekapada Bhairav.

One of the most intriguing things about the statues of the yoginis sculpted inside the Chausath Yogini Temple is that they are exceptionally beautiful figures carved with exquisite features in their aesthetically framed bodies. The statues of all the 64 yoginis are shows to be adorned with necklaces, garlands, armlets, bangles, anklets, earrings and other ornaments. While some have portrayed as huntresses with bows and arrows, others are built showing balancing trick on a pair of wheels, or playing a drum. The 64 yoginis are worshipped equally by the locals as well as by the people who visit here.