Bhubaneswar: The national traveling art exhibition Ekaa – The One opened today at the Buddha Art Gallery to an enthusiastic crowd of artists, historians, and scholars. Conceptualized by artist and social entrepreneur Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan, the three-day showcase will run until March 16, 2026.
Inspired by the spiritual legacy of the Hirapur Chausathi Yogini Temple, the exhibition presented a powerful contemporary interpretation of the 64 Yoginis – sacred manifestations of Shakti representing diverse aspects of wisdom, intuition, courage and transformation. The exhibition is notable for featuring the first-ever complete contemporary collection of all 64 Yoginis painted by a single artist, making it a unique artistic and cultural milestone.
Speaking on the occasion, Debjani Bhuyan, Deputy Director of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department and Secretary of the Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi, praised the concept behind the exhibition.
Founded by Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan, the Kankali Trust for Arts and Cultural Economic Development continues to promote artistic traditions, empower underrepresented creative communities and encourage dialogue around gender inclusivity and cultural heritage.
Artist and Social Entrepreneur Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan said that, “The exhibition formed part of the ambitious 64 Yogini Trail, a national artistic journey covering more than 10,000 kilometres across 16 states. Beginning in Chennai and travelling through Kerala and Coimbatore before arriving in Bhubaneswar, the project seeks to bring India’s ancient sacred feminine traditions into modern cultural dialogue through contemporary visual expression.”
Visitors engaged with the series of 64 paintings and also viewed the documentary Y64: Whispers of the Unseen, which explores the spiritual and cultural narratives surrounding Yogini worship. Conceived as a non-commercial public initiative, the exhibition remained open to visitors free of charge and none of the artworks were placed for sale, emphasising the intent to make Yogini heritage accessible to a wider audience.
One of the highlights of the exhibition was the painting of Mahamaya, inspired by the sacred tradition of the Hirapur Yogini Temple. The artwork symbolically represents the cosmic force of creation, transformation and divine feminine power while celebrating Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage.
“This is a very unique concept. As we know, the Hirapur Chausathi Yogini Temple is one of the four surviving 64 Yogini temples in India, and it is heartening to see an art exhibition inspired by this remarkable heritage. Each artwork in the exhibition carries its own theme and narrative, reflecting the spiritual and cultural depth of the Yogini tradition. I am confident that this exhibition will attract the interest of art lovers, archaeologists and historians who are keen to explore and understand more about the divine feminine energies represented by the Devis,” she said.
With its Bhubaneswar chapter drawing wide appreciation, Ekaa – The One continues its mission of reclaiming and celebrating India’s sacred feminine legacy through contemporary art, storytelling and public engagement.
