Yali (IAST: Yāḷi), [1] (Tamil: யாழி) also called Vyāla (Sanskrit: व्याल), [2] is a South Indian mythological creature, portrayed with the head and the body of a lion, the trunk and the tusks of an elephant, and sometimes bearing equine features.

Yali Hindu mythology is a fascinating glimpse into the rich folklore of ancient India. This mythical creature, depicted in the temple pillars of South India, holds great significance in Hindu mythology and serves as a symbol of power and protection.

In Hindu mythology, the Yali, a majestic symbol of divine protection, blends strength, wisdom, and grace in art and architecture.

In Hindu mythology, the Yali is a powerful creature that is often depicted as a guardian and protector. The creature is said to have the head and body of a lion, the trunk and tusks of an elephant, and sometimes equine features.

Nov 7, 2020 · Some believe that the Yali is nothing more than a fantastic legendary hybrid creature in the large pantheon of Hindu gods, goddesses, and animal-like divinities. There is currently no physical evidence to suggest that the Yali is, or ever was a real animal.

Apr 7, 2025 · Struggle with Nature: The Yali's representation as a creature struggling with elemental forces of nature reflects the Hindu concept of the eternal battle between order (dharma) and chaos (adharma). It embodies the idea of humans grappling with the powerful and often unpredictable forces of the natural world.

Oct 22, 2017 · Yali is a part of Motif Indian Art. Elements which is create recognizable patterns based on folklore and folk art called Motif. This kind of motif indian art has been widely used in south indian sculpture. In 16th century, Yali became more prominent in south indian temples. Yalis are believed more powerful than lion or elephant.

Nov 4, 2019 · There is a strong resemblance between this composite animal and the mythological animal called Yali or Vyala which is depicted at the entrances of many Hindu temples, particularly those of Southern India, and to a lesser extent in Eastern and Central India.

Yali is also known as vyala or vidala in Sanskrit. It is a composite form of many different animals. Samarangana Sutradhara mentions sixteen forms of Vyala that can be carved in sixteen different poses. These two-hundred and fifty-six forms of Yali provided an amazing repertoire in the hands of craftsmen to bring uniformity with variations.

Yali is a mythical animal which has the body of a lion but with a trunk of an elephant. In this form Yali is the vehicle or Vahana of Navagraha Budh or Mercury. As per Vaishnava tradition, Yali is a combination of elephant, lion and snake.