|
The
procedure at the Bhadrakali shrine has one or two more extras. The Bhadrakali by
assuming fierce aspect and raising voice drives the spirit once for all. and it
is signifies by the falling of victim unconscious. There is another practice of
driving nails by the victim into the paala tree grown on the north side of the
shrine for relief. And it is done at the instance arid guidance of the priest.
The victim drives one or two nails into the paala tree hitting them with fist or
head against them. In some cases, the priest enjoins the offering of Guruthi a
red liquid made out of turneric and lime water to the deity. Normally those who
hanker after material objects and wordly prosperity offer this. There is a heavy
rush for this offering, and one has to book for it in advance. Moreover it is
offered only on Tuesdays and Fridays. Devotees carry the Guruthi home for
curving n in the four corners of their dwelling toward off the visitation of
evil forces. There are many parivara devathas installed in the vast compound and
they are receiving worship by the visible.
The temple is in the heart of town, accessible by fort wheelers from Ernakulam,
the harbour fort city of Kerala.
|
