Yakshas

Yakshas are a class of nature spirits in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, primarily known as attendants of Kubera, the god of wealth. Their origins can be traced to the Vedic period, where they are mentioned as mysterious, powerful beings associated with natural phenomena. In the Rigveda (e.g., RV 10.88.4), yakshas are described as supernatural entities that inhabit trees, waters, and mountains. The Puranas elaborate on their role as guardians of treasures hidden in the earth, serving Kubera in his celestial city Alaka.

The Mahabharata (Vana Parva) recounts stories of yakshas testing mortals, such as the famous episode of Yudhishthira and the lake, where a yaksha poses riddles and rewards righteousness. Iconographically, yakshas are often depicted as potbellied, benevolent figures holding a treasure pot or a money bag, symbolizing abundance. They are also portrayed as fierce guardians at temple gates, known as dvārapālas, protecting sacred spaces from evil. Female counterparts, yakshinis, are associated with fertility and trees, as seen in early Indian art like the Didarganj Yakshi.

Regional worship varies: in Kerala, yakshas are venerated in theyyam rituals; in Tamil Nadu, they are invoked in folk traditions for prosperity. In Hindu cosmology, yakshas inhabit the antariksha (intermediate space) and are considered semi-divine beings, ranking below devas but above humans. The Skanda Purana describes their role in Kubera's retinue, while the Bhagavata Purana (10.10) narrates the story of the two yakshas Nalakuvara and Manigriva, who were cursed to become trees and later liberated by Krishna. Despite their benevolent nature, yakshas can be mischievous if disrespected, as noted in the Ramayana (Aranya Kanda) where they test Rama's virtue.

Their worship is often integrated with tree and water veneration, reflecting their deep connection to nature and fertility.

Depicted as potbellied, benevolent beings with treasure pots. Sometimes shown as fierce guardians at temple gates.