Yali also known as Vyala are mythical creatures found in many Hindu temples. They are often sculpted into the pillars mostly at the entrance of the temples as they are said to protect the temples. These mythical creatures are usually shown to have head and stylised body of a lion with tusks or trunk of an elephant and a tail of a serpent.

Yali can be a combination of any of the animals like lion, elephant, serpent, horse, dog, goat, bird etc.

Similar wooden carvings were used to decorate and build chariots.Temple cars or chariots also called as “Rathas” are vehicles used to carry idols of Hindu gods in processions on annual festival days. These are usually made of wood and in most cases have exquisite and intricate carvings on multiple set-in panels. The carvings can be images depicting stories from puranas, deities, mythical animals like Yali, ganas, dancers, real animals etc.

Yali's are popular amongst antique collectors and can be used to add character to interior spaces.