The cult of Yakshi represent a profoundly syncretic religious tradition that evolved through successive phases of assimilation across different religious systems. Originating within pre-Brahmanical Dravidian folk religion, Yakshi worship was subsequently absorbed into Jainism, where Yakshis occupy a significant position as sasanadevathas-attendant guardian deities associated with each Tirthankaras. In South Indian context, Yakshi worship further absorbed elements of regional mother –goddess traditions. With the later expansion of Brahmanical hegemony, Yakshis were appropriated within the Hindu pantheon as upadevathas illustrating a broader pattern of religious transformation and hierarchical incorporation.
Seena M.S (Thu,) studied this question.