Yali
Yali is a Tamil mythological composite creature — lion body, elephant trunk, horse mane, sometimes goat horns. Prominent in South Indian temple architecture (pillars, stairways) as guardian of thresholds, protector of sacred spaces. Not a 'demonic entity' but a protective guardian. Seen in Chola, Vijayanagara, Nayaka temples (Meenakshi, Srirangam). Symbol of royal power, divine protection.