Artist Dr. Beena S. Unnikrishnan
Inauguration of Dr. Beena’s exhibition at Jawahar Kala Kendra; documentary highlights mythological significance
Jaipur: “Naari Tu Narayani”—woman as the embodiment of divinity—is a foundational idea in Indian philosophy. Echoing this life-giving, divine feminine energy, the exhibition ‘Eka: The One’ invites viewers to experience a sacred encounter with spiritual power. The traveling exhibition by senior artist from Kerala, Dr. Beena S. Unnikrishnan, was inaugurated on Monday at the Alankar Gallery of Jawahar Kala Kendra.
The exhibition showcases paintings of the 64 Yoginis, who hold a significant place in goddess worship. Each Yogini represents a distinct form of energy and is believed to bestow specific spiritual attainments. Through these works, the exhibition enables viewers to sense and engage with these diverse energies.
Dr. Beena created 68 paintings over a period of five years. This artistic journey began with the concept of portraying Maha Tripurasundari, which gradually evolved into an expansive spiritual practice. After traveling to Kochi, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Bhopal, and Ahmedabad, the exhibition has now reached Jaipur. This spiritual-artistic traveling exhibition spans 81 days, covering 16 states and nearly 10,000 kilometers. It will remain open to art lovers daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm until 18 February.
Pilgrimage to Yogini temples after completing the 68 artworks
Dr. Beena shares that it was the feminine energy within her that inspired this artistic path. She believes the divine feminine itself chose her as a medium to manifest its presence through art. After completing the paintings of the 64 Yoginis, she undertook a journey to their temples—an experience she describes as profoundly transformative.
History of the Yoginis depicted in a 60-minute documentary
Each painting presents a distinct depiction of a Yogini—varying in form, adornment, radiant eyes, and flowing hair—reflecting unique energies. On the occasion of the exhibition, a 60-minute documentary was also screened, elaborating on the history, energies, and mythological significance of the Yoginis. The documentary has been produced by the artist herself and directed by Dr. Jain Joseph.
The 64 Yoginis dispel fear, doubt, and overthinking
Speaking about her journey, Dr. Beena noted that her first exhibition was held in 1998. Since then, every painting she has created has contributed to her personal growth. With each artwork, she has evolved into a more refined individual. Her engagement with the 64 Yoginis was not merely an artistic exercise, but a deep inner pilgrimage. These divine energies gradually helped her overcome fear, doubt, and excessive overthinking, granting her confidence, balance, and inner peace. Even today, she strongly feels the constant presence of this divine force—her greatest inspiration, guiding her continuously toward creation, spiritual practice, and self-development.