Patanjali and Vanashree
After ascending three massive granite steps, one crosses into the entryway to the Dhyanalinga. On the left is the statue of Patanjali, the celebrated author of the Yoga Sutras, regarded as the father of modern yoga.
Having ascending the three steps, one enters the inner parikrama – the aisle which leads to the Dhyanalinga. On the left is the statue of Patanjali, the celebrated author of the Yoga Sutras, regarded as the father of modern yoga. The eleven-foot tall statue sculpted in black granite depicts a fusion of snake and man, symbolizing the dual nature of life and the divine nature of man evolving from his earthbound nature. The seven-hooded snake that rises over the head of the statue represents the raising of energies through the seven chakras thus reflecting the objective of yoga. On the right is the Vanashree shrine, the feminine deity of the Dhyanalinga and a counterpoint to the Patanjali. The Vanashree, made of green granite, is a sculptural relief of a peepal tree. A gold leaf at the center symbolizes warmth and prosperity. The energies of the deity are such that it is especially beneficial for women and children to meditate in its vicinity. The traditional Keerthi Mukha, the glorious face, finds place above the Vanashree.