Yali (yazhi) is a mythical creature seen in many south indian temples, often sculpted onto the pillars. It may be portrayed as part lion, part elephant and part horse, and in similar shapes. Also, it has been sometimes described as a leogryph (part lion and part griffin), with some bird-like features. Descriptions of and references to yalis are very old, but they became prominent in south indian sculpture in the 16th century. Sometimes referred to as Vyalas, they are known for their...
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