Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage found global recognition as ‘Y64 – Whispers of the Unseen’, a documentary inspired by the ancient 64 Yogini temples, was screened at the 19th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF). Produced in collaboration with the Department of Culture and the Kali Trust, the film presents the fascinating legacy of the Yogini tradition through the artistic and spiritual journey of renowned artist Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan. The screening introduced international audiences to one of India’s most unique cultural narratives, blending history, spirituality, art, and feminine power.
‘Y64 – Whispers of the Unseen’ Showcases Ancient Yogini Heritage at MIFF
The documentary ‘Y64 – Whispers of the Unseen’, based on the iconic 64 Yogini Temple at Mitaoli in Madhya Pradesh, was screened at the prestigious 19th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF), South Asia’s oldest and largest festival dedicated to documentaries, short fiction and animation films.
Created by artist, researcher and spiritual seeker Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan, the film was produced in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Department of Culture and the Kali Trust. The screening marked the documentary’s presentation before an international audience, highlighting India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
During the event, Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan and her team were honoured by Prabhat, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India. The occasion was attended by several dignitaries, including Deepak Narayan, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, MIB, Executive Producer Deepti Chawla, Cinematographer Pradeep, and other distinguished guests.
Celebrating the Legacy of the 64 Yogini Temples
Additional Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, Shiv Shekhar Shukla, highlighted the importance of the 64 Yogini temples located at Mitaoli in Gwalior, Jabalpur, and Khajuraho.
He described these temples as extraordinary examples of India’s ancient architectural brilliance and cultural heritage. The Mitaoli temple, in particular, holds special significance because its circular design is widely believed to have inspired the architecture of India’s old Parliament House.
Shukla noted that the Mitaoli temple is currently included in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites. He emphasized that projects such as ‘Y64 – Whispers of the Unseen’ are helping connect younger generations with India’s rich cultural roots while promoting universal values such as creativity, courage, self-discovery, and feminine strength.
A 12-Year Artistic Journey Becomes a Documentary
Sharing her experiences, Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan revealed that her association with the Yoginis began more than twelve years ago when she set out to create artistic representations of the 64 Yoginis.
What started as a documentation project gradually transformed into an extraordinary personal and spiritual journey. Over the years, the project evolved into a book, exhibitions, a nationwide outreach campaign, and eventually a documentary film.
Earlier this year, Dr. Unnikrishnan undertook a remarkable 15,000-kilometre road journey across 14 Indian cities, carrying the original 64 Yogini paintings and engaging thousands of people in discussions on art, culture, spirituality and heritage.
Reflecting on the experience, she said that she initially embarked on the project as an artist searching for answers but never imagined that it would culminate in such a large cultural movement.
“I always say that I did not choose the Yoginis; rather, the Yoginis chose me,” she remarked.
According to her, the documentary explores not only the mysteries and history of the Yogini temples but also the courage, dedication and transformation required to follow a spiritual calling.
Exploring Feminine Power and Spiritual Transformation
The documentary delves into the mystical world of the Yoginis, a powerful feminine spiritual tradition deeply rooted in India’s cultural history.
Through visual storytelling, artistic interpretation and historical exploration, the film presents a compelling narrative that celebrates feminine energy, self-discovery and inner transformation.
It seeks to revive interest in a lesser-known but significant chapter of India’s spiritual heritage, making it accessible to contemporary audiences both in India and abroad.
A Unique Blend of Culture, Art and Heritage
Supported by the Government of Madhya Pradesh and the Kankali Trust, ‘Y64 – Whispers of the Unseen’ offers viewers a rare opportunity to experience the convergence of art, spirituality, history and heritage.
The film takes audiences on a journey through ancient temple traditions while showcasing how cultural heritage continues to inspire contemporary artistic expression.
By bringing the story of the 64 Yoginis to the silver screen, the documentary contributes to preserving and promoting India’s rich civilisational legacy for future generations.
From Ancient Temples to Global Recognition
The screening at MIFF marks a significant milestone for the documentary and for Madhya Pradesh’s cultural heritage. It demonstrates how regional stories rooted in ancient traditions can resonate with global audiences when presented through compelling storytelling and artistic vision.
For Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan, the film represents the culmination of a decade-long journey of faith, creativity and perseverance. For viewers, it offers a rare glimpse into one of India’s most fascinating spiritual traditions—one that continues to inspire, empower and intrigue even today.
Read also: CM Dr. Mohan Yadav Inspects ₹1,697 Crore Simhastha 2028 Ghat and Kanha Diversion Projects in Ujjain
