Mandarava – the Indian Princess
According to tradition, Mandarava was a princess of Zahor in India.
She became an important disciple and tantric consort of Padmasambhava even before his journey to Tibet. Her biography describes her as an exceptionally learned and spiritually realized woman.
Together with Padmasambhava, she practiced particularly important tantric meditations. In depictions of Padmasambhava, she is therefore often shown at his right side.
Yeshe Tsogyal – the Tibetan Princess
Yeshe Tsogyal came from Kharchen in Tibet and is referred to as a princess.
She initially became a consort of the Tibetan king Trisong Detsen.
Later, she became a disciple and Padmasambhava’s most important tantric consort in Tibet. She is considered one of the most significant female figures in Tibetan Buddhism.
Her role in transmitting and preserving Padmasambhava’s teachings was particularly important: According to tradition, she transcribed his teachings and concealed numerous terma [»hidden treasures«] for future generations.