Explore Ultimate Feminine Energy Through Dakini

Dakini shines brightly as a fierce yet nurturing guide in the vibrant realm of Vajrayana Buddhism. And their statues transcend being simple medium of worship as they are living embodiments of wisdom and energy. Known as ḍākinī in Sanskrit and khandroma in Tibetan, which translates to “sky-dancer” or “sky-goer,” she represents the most immediate and dynamic aspect of awakened awareness. When depicted in art, particularly in statues, the Dakini expresses her essence through striking iconography; dancing flames, garlands of skulls, curved knives, and blooming lotus flowers all serve as symbolic teachings.

Each element instructs the practitioner on how to slice through illusion, ignite their inner fire, and embrace fearless wisdom. This read will take you on a journey through the significant Dakini statues cherished in Vajrayana, from the fiery Vajrayogini to the compassionate Green Tara; unpacking their meanings, symbolism, and artistic representations.

Along the way, we’ll also encounter remarkable female adepts like Sukhasiddhi and Yeshe Tsogyal, as well as the primordial Wisdom Dakinis who embody the very energies of enlightenment. As we delve into these statues, we’re not just discussing art; we’re opening a gateway into the mandala of enlightened feminine power.

1. The Supreme Dakini Vajrayogini

"Oṁ Vajrayogini Hūṁ Phat"

Vajrayogini is celebrated as the embodiment of the enlightened feminine energy in Vajrayana Buddhism. She symbolizes the fierce power of wisdom and transformation, helping practitioners break through illusions to truly experience the brilliant essence of awareness. Often referred to as the Supreme Dakini, Vajrayogini embodies both strength and compassion, channeling the raw energy of realization that clears the path for spiritual growth. 

Rooted in tantric traditions, emerges from the Cakrasaṃvara Tantra, where she is depicted as the consort of Heruka, also known as Chakrasamvara. Over the years, she has become a pivotal figure in the Kagyu and Sakya schools, with her practice regarded as one of the fastest routes to enlightenment within a single lifetime. She is also viewed as the essence of all Dakinis, representing a concentrated form of wisdom that harmonizes bliss and emptiness. Her practice is often called upon to sever desire and attachment, transforming them into the driving force for realization. Practitioners seek her guidance for clarity, energy, and the bravery to confront the ego head-on.

Want to learn more about the statue above? Explore the full story here at Tantric Dakini Vajrayogini: The Statue of the Fierce and Feminine Wisdom.

Iconography of Vajrayogini

• Red Complexion: Symbolizes the transformation of passion into enlightened awareness.

• Dancing Posture: Dynamic stance expressing fearless wisdom and the play of emptiness.

• Kartika (Curved Knife): Cuts through ego-clinging and illusion.

• Kapala (Skull Cup): Holds the nectar of immortality, symbolizing the bliss of realization.

• Khaṭvāṅga Staff: Resting against her shoulder, representing union with her consort Heruka and the inseparability of wisdom and method.

• Garland of Skulls: Fifty heads symbolizing the purification of all sounds into mantra.

• Trampling a Corpse: Represents the conquest of ego and ignorance.

• Flaming Aura: The fire of wisdom consuming delusion.

Vajrayogini statues are striking in their energy, embodying the power of direct transformation. To invite her into one’s practice is to call upon the fierce compassion that strips away illusion and awakens radiant awareness. Her image is not only an object of devotion but also a mirror reflecting the enlightened potential within every being.

Explore about the Three Forms of Vajrayogini: Tradition of Indrabhuti, Naropa and Maitreyapa here.

2. The Diamond Sow Vajravarahi

"Oṁ Vajravarahi Hūṁ Phat"

Vajravarahi is a fierce sow-headed form of Vajrayogini. Also known as Dorje Phagmo in Tibetan, she embodies a unique blend of wisdom and protective energy. With her striking mix of wrathful and nurturing traits, she is often celebrated as the female consort of Hevajra. In this role, Vajravarahi holds the incredible ability to transform ignorance into wisdom through direct, pure realization. Her powerful presence isn't just about her fierce appearance; it also serves as a lesson for practitioners on how to face the darker corners of the mind and turn them into pure awareness.

Similar to Vajrayogini, Vajravarahi originates from the Cakrasaṃvara Tantra, where she is depicted as an inseparable partner to the deity Hevajra. Within the Nyingma and Kagyu traditions, she stands out as a vital figure for those delving into advanced deity yoga and tantric practices. Her image often symbolizes the journey from ordinary existence to enlightenment, representing the wisdom that helps clear both mental and physical barriers.

Iconography of Vajravarahi

• Red Complexion: Symbolizing the energy of transformation, the fiery red color represents her dynamic power to burn away ignorance and desire.

• Sow’s Head: The sow’s head grows from her right ear or crown, symbolizing her ability to root out hidden obscurations, just as a sow roots the earth to uncover hidden sustenance. It reflects her power to reveal hidden wisdom.

• Kartika (Curved Knife): The knife represents the cutting action of wisdom, severing attachment and ignorance from the practitioner’s mind.

• Kapala (Skull Cup): Her skull cup holds the nectar of immortality, representing her ability to transform the poisons of attachment into the bliss of awakening.

• Khaṭvāṅga Staff: The staff signifies her union with Heruka and the inseparability of wisdom and compassion.

• Bone Ornaments: These symbolize the impermanence of the body and the transformative nature of death, pointing to the completion of wisdom once ego is transcended.

• Trampling a Corpse: Just as Vajrayogini tramples over ego, Vajravarahi’s image often shows her standing over a corpse, marking the end of delusion and the victory of wisdom.

The striking image of Vajravarahi embodies the vibrant energy that a spiritual seeker needs to shatter the illusions of the self and uncover their true essence. Statues of Vajravarahi symbolize triumph over the ego, the metamorphosis of confusion, and the deep power of wisdom in action.

Discover the Characteristic Description of Dakini Vajravarahi and Vajrayogini through this blog.

3. Kurukulla – The Red Dakini of Attraction

"Oṁ Kurukulle Hriḥ Svāhā"

Kurukulla is celebrated as the Red Dakini of magnetizing power, a vibrant force that can attract people and situations toward the practitioner’s spiritual aspirations. She is associated to the Padma family, the Lotus lineage of Amitabha Buddha, and embodies the essence of transformation through attraction. While often portrayed as a symbol of beauty and desire, her true significance lies in the transformative power of attraction itself. When called upon, Kurukulla takes everyday, worldly desires and elevates them into spiritual yearnings, channeling potent energies toward the realization of inner wisdom. 

In Tibetan Buddhist practice, the Red Enchantress Kurukulla is especially associated with magnetizing rituals and tantric practices designed to draw in favorable conditions for spiritual development. She’s frequently viewed as a fierce protector and a goddess of charm, helping to clear the way by bringing the practitioner closer to their spiritual goals. Kurukulla’s practice is a key aspect of many Kagyu and Nyingma traditions, believed to have the ability to eliminate external barriers and enhance inner magnetism. 

Her practice is deeply rooted in the transformation of desire, illustrating that attraction doesn’t have to be a source of attachment; instead, it can be redirected to create powerful forces for enlightenment. Practitioners invoke her to attract opportunities, summon wisdom, and broaden their influence, all while keeping their eyes on the ultimate goal of liberation.

Read More about the above statue at The Red Dakini Kurukulla: Magnetic Power and Alluring Wisdom here.

Iconography of Kurukulla

• Red Complexion: Her red color symbolizes fiery magnetism, turning worldly desire into spiritual aspiration.

• Four Arms: Each hand holds a symbolic implement: a flower bow, an arrow, a noose, and a hook, all of which represent her power to draw beings toward the path of Dharma.

• Flower Bow and Arrow: These represent the power of attraction and magnetism, symbolizing the ability to direct desire toward spiritual growth.

• Flower Noose and Hook: These tools show how universal attraction can be harnessed to draw beings into the compassionate fold of the Buddha’s teachings.

• Dancing Posture: The dynamic and playful posture represents the joyful wisdom that arises from turning attraction into enlightened action.

• Corpse Beneath Her Feet: The death of ego under her feet symbolizes how worldly attachment is transcended and transformed into pure intention.

• Flaming Aura: Her flaming aura signifies the purification of passion into wisdom, with the fire of desire turned into enlightenment.

Kurukulla’s statues radiate a unique blend of charm and power, drawing in anyone who gazes upon them with their lively energy and striking presence. Her fierce yet elegant figure embodies the mastery of passion and desire, urging practitioners to fully embrace these powerful forces and channel them into pathways for achieving greater wisdom and spiritual awakening. As a goddess of enchantment and magnetic influence, Kurukulla instills a sense of confidence, focus, and bold action on the journey to enlightenment, reminding us that even our most intense emotions can be skillfully transformed into profound inner change.

Explore through Termatree's curated collection of Kurukulla statues here.

4. The Lion-Faced Dakini – Simhamukha, Protector of Truth

"Oṁ Siṁhamukhī Hūṁ Phat"

Simhamukha, known as the Lion-Faced Dakini, embodies a fearless wisdom that boldly confronts the shadows of ignorance. With her lion-like visage, she symbolizes the unwavering courage and strength needed to tackle our inner challenges and negative feelings. The roar of Simhamukha signifies the profound truth of emptiness, breaking down false beliefs and overcoming the mental poisons of fear, pride, anger, and jealousy.

Simhamukha is a fierce manifestation of Padmasambhava and holds a significant place in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Her formidable presence dispels fear and shields practitioners from harmful influences, whether they come from outside or within. As a guardian deity, she embodies the lion’s roar, awakening practitioners to the ultimate truth of emptiness and the fleeting nature of all things. Her practice is called upon for protection, cutting through negative energies, and restoring harmony in both the mind of the practitioner and their surroundings. She is especially honored in rituals designed to remove obstacles and shatter ignorance.

Iconography of Simhamukha

• Lion Face: The most distinguishing feature, the lion face symbolizes courage, strength, and the victorious roar of truth.

• Wrathful Expression: Simhamukha’s fierce, protective gaze represents the power to dispel negativity and protect practitioners from harm.

• Blue or Red Complexion: Reflects the transformative power of wisdom, turning aggression and anger into wisdom.

• Kartika and Kapala: The curved knife (kartika) represents her power to cut through ignorance, and the skull cup (kapala) signifies the wisdom that transcends suffering.

• Khaṭvāṅga Staff: Symbolizes her union with the ultimate truth, and the staff represents the in-separability of wisdom and method.

• Flaming Aura: The flames surrounding Simhamukha’s body represent the purifying power of wisdom and the burning away of negative emotions.

• Trampling a Corpse: Indicates the defeat of ego and the triumph of wisdom over illusion.

A statue of Simhamukha radiates a powerful roar of truth that conquers fear and unveils the profound wisdom of emptiness. Her presence on an altar serves as a poignant reminder to practitioners that genuine courage stems from grasping the nature of reality and recognizing the fleeting nature of all things.

Find your Simhamukha statue at Termatree through this link.

5. Tara – The Compassionate Dakini of Swift Liberation

"Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā"

Tara, often referred to as "The Mother of All Buddhas," holds a special place in the hearts of many within Tibetan Buddhism. As the Bodhisattva of Compassion, she represents the essence of swift and compassionate action. Among her various forms, Green Tara stands out as the most cherished, frequently called upon for protection, quick relief from danger, and the removal of obstacles on one’s spiritual journey. She embodies the wisdom of karma, symbolizing the dynamic, all-encompassing energy of enlightened activity.

The roots of Tara can be traced back to the teachings of Padmasambhava and the Bodhisattva vows, which commit her to remain in female form until all beings find liberation. This aspect of her practice is vital, as she combines the nurturing gentleness of a mother with the ability to act swiftly, rescuing all sentient beings from the cycle of suffering. In Vajrayana practice, Tara’s most important role is her capacity to respond immediately to the needs of practitioners seeking compassionate support. People often turn to her practice to help clear obstacles in both their spiritual and everyday lives. Green Tara, in particular, is viewed as the goddess who offers immediate assistance and relief, especially in times of danger or hardship.

Learn More about White Tara and Green Tara: An Insightful Comparison here.

Iconography of Tara 

• Green Complexion: Symbolizing action and protection, Green Tara embodies the swift power of compassion that instantly responds to suffering.

• Seated Posture: Often depicted in a seated posture, with her right leg extended, she is ready to act in response to the needs of beings.

• Right Hand in Varada Mudra: The gesture of generosity and compassionate giving, symbolizing her willingness to give all to liberate sentient beings.

• Left Hand in Lotus Gesture: Holding a lotus flower, this signifies the purity of wisdom rising from samsara.

• Peaceful Expression: Her serene face reflects gentle compassion, assuring practitioners that she is ever-present to help them along their path.

• Lotus Garland and Ornaments: Her crown and attire reflect her Bodhisattva status, symbolizing purity and perfection in wisdom.

Statues of Tara exude gentleness and protection, representing the compassionate activity that swiftly transforms suffering into wisdom. Her form invites practitioners to embrace the motherly compassion of swift intervention, turning obstacles into opportunities for spiritual growth.

Find your Tara statue here and embrace her blessings!

6. Sukhasiddhi – The Blissful Dakini of Fulfillment

"Oṁ Sukhasiddhi Hūṁ Phat"

Sukhasiddhi represents the essence of blissful realization and spiritual achievement. Her name, which translates to "Blissful Accomplishment," beautifully captures the essence of fully embracing joy and wisdom. Often portrayed as a nurturing motherly figure, her calming presence brings peace, happiness, and nourishment to those who seek her guidance, providing both spiritual healing and longevity.

She holds a significant place within the Kagyu lineage, where she is honored as a highly advanced yoginī and a key lineage holder. Her teachings emphasize the fulfillment of desires that resonate with the wisdom of the spiritual path. Practitioners call upon her for the gifts of blissful accomplishment and spiritual success.

Learn More about The Life of Sukhasiddhi Yogini: Wisdom Dakini here.

Iconography of Sukhasiddhi

• Golden Complexion: Represents the light of wisdom, long life, and joyous achievement in spiritual practice.

• Amrita Vase: Held in her hands, symbolizing the nectar of immortality, a gift of healing and the preservation of life.

• Seated or Standing Posture: Often shown in a calm and graceful stance, Sukhasiddhi exudes a serene presence that invites inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

• Ornaments of a Yoginī: Her simple yet radiant attire represents the perfection of realized beings, unburdened by attachment but fully radiant with wisdom.

• Gentle Expression: Her compassionate face assures the practitioner of nourishment and protection.

Sukhasiddhi statues bring a sense of bliss and ease into the practitioner’s life, reminding them that the path to awakening need not be harsh or difficult but can be filled with joy and fulfillment.

7. Yeshe Tsogyal – The Enlightened Queen of the Dakinis

Yeshe Tsogyal stands out as one of the most remarkable women in Tibetan Buddhism, celebrated as an enlightened yoginī and a treasure revealer. Often referred to as the "Mother of Tibetan Buddhism," she was the consort of Padmasambhava and plays a vital role in the Nyingma tradition.

Yeshe Tsogyal is not just a historical figure; she embodies wisdom, demonstrating that the journey to enlightenment is accessible to everyone. Her life is a testament to incredible devotion and sacrifice. Yeshe Tsogyal was pivotal in sharing Padmasambhava's teachings and played a key role in safeguarding the terma treasures that would go on to benefit countless generations of Tibetan Buddhists. Her insights and her role as a female teacher make her a symbol of compassionate action and spiritual achievement.

Iconography of Yeshe Tsogyal

• Peaceful Female Form: Representing her nurturing wisdom, she embodies the compassionate mother who provides guidance and protection.

• Lotus Seat: Symbolizes purity, showing that even in the midst of samsara, enlightenment can arise.

• Vase or Scroll: Often holding the scrolls of sacred teachings or ritual objects, representing her role as a transmitter of wisdom.

• Ornaments of a Realized Being: Her simple but radiant attire reflects her enlightened state, one of wisdom, generosity, and loving-kindness.

• Gentle Expression: Her serene face represents the peace of full realization, offering assurance to practitioners that the path is both gentle and achievable.

Yeshe Tsogyal statues serve as a powerful reminder for practitioners to draw strength from their devotion. They highlight the beautiful truth that enlightenment isn't limited to any one gender; it's a journey open to all beings, no matter their circumstances.

Find your Yeshe Tsogyal statue and invite her wisdom and grace into your practice.

7. Mandarava – The Goddess of Wisdom and Liberation

Iconography of Mandarava

• White Complexion: Mandarava is often depicted with a white complexion, symbolizing her purity and perfect realization of the wisdom of emptiness. This purity is the foundation of her transformative power.

• Seated Posture: She is often shown seated in meditative posture, which symbolizes the peace and stillness of mind needed to connect with the deepest wisdom.

• Two Lotus Flowers: Mandarava typically holds lotus flowers in each hand, representing the purity of wisdom arising from the muck of samsara. The lotus symbolizes spiritual growth despite worldly distractions.

• Gentle Expression: Her face often carries a gentle and compassionate expression, reflecting her nurturing nature and the wisdom of unshakable serenity.

• Crown of Wisdom: Mandarava is depicted wearing a crown or headband made of precious jewels, reflecting her status as a realized master who has achieved the highest wisdom.

• Tibetan Royal Attire: As a princess by birth, she is also shown in traditional royal attire, but her attire is always portrayed with simplicity and elegance, signifying the balance of both worldly and spiritual achievement.

Mandarava’s statues and images exude a sense of calm and purity, gently encouraging practitioners to embrace a state of spiritual clarity and healing. Her serene gaze and the lotus flowers she holds represent the idea that through devotion and meditation, anyone can achieve the same wisdom and purity that she embodies.

Discover through our curated collection of Mandarava statues here.

8. Nairatmya – The Lady of No-Self

oṁ nairātmyai hūṁ phaṭ

Nairatmya, often referred to as the Lady of No-Self, embodies profound wisdom about emptiness. She frequently appears in the context of the Hevajra Tantra, where she is portrayed as the consort of Hevajra, symbolizing the direct understanding of non-self. Her teachings emphasize that the ego—the notion of a permanent, unchanging self—lacks true existence and is ultimately just an illusion.

Nairatmya’s practice centers on realizing shunyata (emptiness), which helps dissolve the ego’s grip on self-identity. As a fierce Dakini, she is called upon to pierce through the illusion of self, guiding practitioners to experience the boundless nature of emptiness.

Iconography of Nairatmya

• Blue or Dark Complexion: Symbolizing the wisdom of emptiness and the transformation of ignorance into ultimate knowledge.

• Wrathful Expression: Her fierce face and stance symbolize the power to destroy delusion and break free from the chains of self-centeredness.

• Kapala (Skull Cup) and Kartika (Curved Knife): Tools for cutting through ego and attachment and representing the method of wisdom.

• Dancing Posture: The dynamic movement suggests her power to actively purify and transform ignorance into the wisdom of no-self.

• Bone Ornaments: Representing the impermanence of all phenomena and the unreal nature of the self.

Nairatmya’s statues encourage practitioners to face their attachment to self and understand the emptiness of everything around us. Her image serves as a powerful reminder that true freedom comes from directly experiencing the concept of no-self.

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Wisdom Takes Form: Closing Reflections on the Dakinis

Dakini statues will always remain a sacred art and vibrant symbols of awakened energy. Each one, whether it’s the fierce Vajrayogini, the enchanting Kurukulla, the lion-faced Simhamukha, or the compassionate Green Tara, captures a unique expression of enlightened wisdom and dynamic transformation. 

At Termatree, the revered Dakini statues serve more purpose than being a decoration as  they’re crafted with devotion and deep symbolic integrity, acting as gateways to inner realization. Their presence enhances meditation, invites blessings, and encourages practitioners to tap into their innate potential. Through the Dakinis, we’re reminded that true power comes from fearlessness, compassion, and the clear wisdom of emptiness. These enlightened beings teach us that liberation isn’t something far away; rather it’s alive within us, just waiting to be acknowledged.

Read More from Termatree:

1. In the Footsteps of Enlightenment: A Visit to the Sacred Vajrayogini Temple in Sankhu Kathmandu
2. Vajravarahi and Kurukulla: The Two Major Dakini In Vajrayana Buddhism
3. Simhamukha Yogini: The Lion-Faced Dakini of Enlightened Power
4. Green Tara Statue: Meaning, Benefits & the Wisdom of the Bodhisattva
5. Yeshe Tsogyal and Mandarava: Celebrating Two Powerful Women of Buddhism
6. Two Major Consorts of Guru Rinpoche:  Mandarava and Yeshe Tsogyal