Everything about 64 Yoginis: Names, Powers, and Mantras

The worship of Yoginis holds a significant place in the realm of Devi Puja. These divine feminine entities, often numbering sixty-four, embody various aspects of Shakti—the primordial cosmic energy. Their veneration is deeply rooted in Tantric traditions and is considered essential for spiritual advancement and the attainment of siddhis (supernatural powers).

Origins and Esoteric Significance of Yoginis

The origin of Yoginis is both mythological and mystical. According to the Yogini Tantra, the Yoginis emerged from the body of the supreme Goddess as autonomous energies, each representing a form of cosmic function. They are not subordinate beings but independent emanations of Devi herself.

“शिवशक्त्याः स्वरूपाणि योगिन्यः सिद्धिकाम्यया। सर्वत्र विहरन्त्येताः मुक्तिदायिन्यपावकाः॥”
— Yogini Tantra, Chapter 2

Translation: “The Yoginis are the very forms of Shiva-Shakti, desiring to bestow siddhis. They roam freely across the universe, granting liberation and purification.”

Another important verse from the same text states:

“अयोनिजाः स्वच्छन्दाश्च देव्या अंशसमुद्भवाः। योगिन्यः शक्तिरूपेण लीलया चरितानि च॥”
— Yogini Tantra, Chapter 3

Translation: “Unborn from a womb, self-willed, and born from parts of the Goddess, the Yoginis move about in divine play, taking on forms of Shakti.”

Yoginis and Their Role in Tantra

In Tantric philosophy, Yoginis are considered gatekeepers of higher wisdom and guardians of spiritual secrets. They are invoked during advanced Tantric sadhanas (spiritual practices) to transcend mundane limitations.

The Yogini Tantra places great emphasis on their worship:

“योगिनीनां समाराध्यं तंत्रमार्गेण सिद्धयः। न विनाऽर्चां न मन्त्राणां सिद्धिः कापि कदाचन॥”

Translation: “Without propitiating the Yoginis through Tantric methods, no mantra can yield siddhi (success), nor can any spiritual accomplishment be attained.”

This underlines their indispensable role in unlocking the deeper layers of mantra, yantra, and tantra, especially in the Kaula and Shakta paths.

Yoginis in Vedic and Puranic Texts

Yoginis are mentioned in various ancient scriptures, highlighting their importance in spiritual practices:

• Agni Purana: Describes the Yoginis as attendants of Devi, each with distinct powers and roles. For instance, it states:

  “अष्टौ योगिन्यः शक्त्याः सहिता: सर्वदा पूज्याः।”

  Translation: “The eight Yoginis, along with Shakti, are always to be worshipped.”
• Kalika Purana: Elaborates on Yogini worship and their connection to the Matrikas. It mentions:

  “षष्टि योगिन्यः शक्त्याः सहिता: सर्वदा पूज्याः।”

  Translation: “The sixty Yoginis, along with Shakti, are always to be worshipped.”
• Skanda Purana: Depicts the Yoginis as protectors of sacred geography and pilgrimage sites. For example:

  “सप्तषष्टिः योगिन्यः काशी क्षेत्रे प्रतिष्ठिताः।”

  Translation: “Sixty-four Yoginis are established in the sacred region of Kashi.”
• Brahmanda Purana: Discusses their creation from Devi’s breath to combat demonic forces. It states:

  “देव्याः श्वासात् उत्पन्नाः योगिन्यः दैत्यनाशनाः।”

  Translation: “Yoginis, born from Devi's breath, are destroyers of demons.”

These references confirm the multifaceted roles of Yoginis—spiritual guides, cosmic warriors, and divine liberators.

Yogini Temples and Worship Practices

Ancient Yogini temples in India were constructed as circular open-air structures, symbolizing the mystical mandala. These spaces were designed for Tantric rituals and night-time sadhanas. Notable temples include:

• Hirapur Yogini Temple in Odisha
• Ranipur-Jharial Yogini Temple in Odisha
• Khajuraho Yogini Temple in Madhya Pradesh
• Bhedaghat Yogini Temple in Madhya Pradesh

Each temple features individual niches for each Yogini, highlighting their independent status. Rituals performed here are believed to bestow occult knowledge, divine vision, and liberation from karmic cycles.

Before I conclude

Ypoginis are always to be trated with utmost respect and care. You may do some fault while worshipping Devi Maa and she being the devine mother does not feel bad. But when a ritual is performed, the Yoginis come first to see if everything is in order. And to note, they may not always be merciful. You need to provide proper arrangement and bhog. Also note that these mantras are correct but you need to be under the guidance of a guru for a safe journey and better results. Also worshipping Bhairab is considered benificial when you get in to Yogini Puja or Devi maa Puja

A final word

The Yoginis, as embodiments of the Divine Feminine, play a crucial role in Devi Puja and Tantric traditions. Their worship is not merely ritualistic—it is a profound path to divine union, liberation, and empowerment. Through scriptures like the Yogini Tantra, their wisdom has been preserved, guiding seekers through the labyrinth of consciousness.

To invoke a Yogini is to awaken the dormant powers within. In the age of distractions, turning to these ancient guardians offers both inner strength and cosmic connection. For the true Tantric aspirant, the Yoginis are not myth—they are reality, living forces vibrating across sacred space and time.