Chennai-Based Artist Beena Unnikrishnan’s Documentary ‘Y64 – Whispers of Unseen’ Premieres at Mumbai International Film Festival

Y64 – Whispers of Unseen, the one-hour documentary chronicling artist and seeker Beena Unnikrishnan’s extraordinary 12.5-year journey with the ancient tradition of the Chausath Yoginis, had its maiden festival screening at the prestigious Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) held in Mumbai from 15th till 21st June 2026. Supported by the Kankali Trust and the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the premiere marked the first opportunity for international festival audiences to experience this unique transmedia project that spans painting, literature, travel, spirituality and cinema.

What began as an artist’s fascination with the 64 Yoginis evolved into an immersive exploration of feminine power, heritage and self-discovery.

A painter known primarily for geometric and abstract forms, Beena Unnikrishnan initially found herself hesitant—even fearful—of painting human figures. Yet it was precisely this challenge that drew her toward the Yoginis. Through the process of creating 64 canvases inspired by these powerful feminine archetypes, she embarked on a transformative journey that pushed her beyond artistic comfort zones and led her toward a deeper understanding of womanhood, creativity and the sacred feminine.

Remarkably, the documentary itself was never part of the original plan. When Beena began painting over a decade ago, she had no intention of making a film. However, she instinctively sensed that the scale and significance of the undertaking needed to be documented. What began as a visual record of an artist’s process gradually evolved into a cinematic chronicle of perseverance, devotion and transformation.

Earlier this year, Beena undertook an ambitious 14,000-kilometre road journey across India, travelling through 14 cities with all 64 original canvases. The travelling exhibition introduced thousands of viewers to the Yoginis, generating admiration and dialogue wherever it stopped. The roadshow transformed the project from a personal exploration into a national cultural movement, bringing ancient wisdom to contemporary audiences through art and storytelling.

Speaking about the milestone, Beena Unnikrishnan said, “When I began this journey twelve and a half years ago, I was simply an artist searching for answers. I never imagined it would become a book, an exhibition, a 14,000-kilometre road journey, and eventually a documentary film. The Yoginis taught me to move beyond fear—fear of painting forms, fear of embracing my femininity, and fear of trusting an unseen path. I often say that I did not choose the Yoginis; they chose me. I was merely fortunate enough to receive their darshan through these art forms.”

The documentary captures not only the history and mystique of the Yogini temples but also the courage required to surrender to a calling that unfolded over more than a decade. Audiences responded strongly to Beena’s vulnerability, determination and unwavering commitment to completing a project that many would consider impossible.

Shri Shiv Shekhar Deo, representing Madhya Pradesh Tourism, said, “Madhya Pradesh is home to some of India’s most extraordinary Yogini heritage sites, where history, spirituality, art and architecture come together in remarkable ways. We are proud to support Y64 – Chausath Yoginis, a project that reintroduces this powerful legacy to a new generation. Through Beena Unnikrishnan’s artistic journey, the film invites young people to engage with India’s cultural roots while exploring universal themes of creativity, courage, self-discovery and the enduring power of the feminine.”

Supported by the Kankali Trust and the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the documentary also celebrates the rich cultural and spiritual heritage associated with the Yogini temples of India, inviting viewers into a world where art, faith, history and personal transformation intersect.