In the heart of India’s ancient spiritual traditions lies a mysterious circle of divine feminine figures known as the 64 Yoginis. Often associated with esoteric Tantric worship, these Yoginis are not just goddesses—they are embodiments of cosmic energy (Shakti), wisdom, and fierce spiritual power. Although they are rarely mentioned in mainstream Hindu narratives, they occupy a vital space in Tantric practices and are revered as powerful guides to spiritual liberation. Intriguingly, the energy and philosophy behind these Yoginis also intersect with the teachings of Guru Datta, the primordial yogi and master of the Nath and Avadhuta traditions.
Who Are the 64 Yoginis?
The 64 Yoginis are semi-divine female figures worshipped in a secretive and often misunderstood branch of Tantric spirituality. They are believed to be manifestations of the Great Goddess (Devi) and are worshipped individually or as a group in specially constructed circular, open-air temples—the most famous being the Chausath Yogini Temple in Hirapur, Odisha. These temples are intentionally roofless, symbolizing openness to the cosmic elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
Each Yogini has her own iconography, personality, and symbolism. Some are serene and benevolent, while others are fierce and terrifying, standing over corpses or riding wild animals. Together, they represent the full spectrum of divine feminine energy, from nurturing mother to fearsome warrior.
Guru Datta: The Avadhuta and Tantric Master
Guru Datta is a unique figure in Indian spirituality, often depicted with three heads representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—signifying the unity of all divine aspects. But beyond this symbolism, Guru Datta is revered in Avadhuta and Nath traditions as the Adi Guru—the original spiritual teacher who transcends ritual, dogma, and worldly boundaries.
His teachings are deeply non-dualistic, and he is considered the embodiment of inner realization, free from the rules of conventional religion. In the Avadhuta Gita, a scripture attributed to him, Guru Datta speaks from the level of ultimate truth, echoing the path of direct experience beyond dualities.
The Subtle Connection: Guru Datta and the 64 Yoginis
While there is no widely known mythological story directly linking Guru Datta to the 64 Yoginis, their connection is philosophical, esoteric, and symbolic.
Tantric Common Ground:
Both the Yoginis and Guru Datta belong to Tantric and non-orthodox spiritual traditions. Guru Datta, as a teacher of left-hand path (Vamachara) practices, is often invoked in Kaula and Avadhuta Tantras, where Yogini worship is also central.Master of Shakti:
In some Tantric texts, Guru Datta is seen as a master of Yogic powers (siddhis) and a guide to navigating the subtle planes—realms where Yoginis are believed to dwell. In this context, he can be viewed as one who understands and channels the power of Yoginis, though not as their direct consort or commander.Yoginis as Energies Within:
In advanced kundalini and chakra-based practices—common in Nath and Dattatreya traditions—the Yoginis are not just external deities but inner forces that awaken at various spiritual stages. Guru Datta's teachings emphasize the direct inner experience of the divine, which aligns with how Yoginis are encountered in deeper Tantric sadhana.The Nath Connection:
The Nath Sampradaya, tracing its lineage to Guru Datta, reveres both male and female siddhas and yogis. Yoginis are considered spiritual equals and sometimes even guardians or initiators on the path. This inclusion of the feminine as divine and autonomous strongly resonates with Yogini worship.
Beyond Ritual: A Shared Spiritual Ideal
Both the 64 Yoginis and Guru Datta embody a vision of freedom beyond form. They challenge rigid boundaries, embrace paradox, and point the seeker toward a state of fearless unity with the cosmos. Their worship, when undertaken with reverence and understanding, is not about fear or secrecy, but about realizing the inner radiance of Shakti, the creative force behind all existence.
In that sense, while the Yoginis stand in a temple and Guru Datta often roams the forest or the cremation ground, they both call the soul home to itself—urging it to dissolve the illusion of separation and awaken into wholeness.