9. Socio-Cultural Aspects of Expiatory Rites in Later Period

The Tantric concept of Prāyaścitta strongly influenced Kerala culture and social conditions. In the early period, the ruling class has given land and money to the Brahmins for removing their sins and attaining Puṇya through the way of Prāyaścitta. The concept of Dāna and Dakṣiṇā also promoted giving valuable things to Brahmins and temple authorities. In course of time astrology also helped in the popularization of expiatory rites in temples and for gaining more sovereignty. Religious authorities used the concept of sin and expiatory rites for the purpose of social control and attainment of the property. The concept of expiation gradually helped the priestly class and the religious institutions for acquiring land and properties.

The present day expiatory ritual scenario of Kerala is not only based on Tantric ritual manuals but also on the various beliefs and on the influences of astrology. In a broad sense, regional and conceptual variations are seen in Tantric rituals. The performance of Vaḻipāṭu (a popular Malayalam word denoting the offerings in temple worship) may be an expanded form of Prāyaścitta. At the moment, astrologers prescribe various offerings like Dāna, Dakṣiṇā, Nityapūja, Kalaśa, Gaṇapatihoma and food offerings to the deity as the remedies for the removal of illness, diseases and bad effects of planets. Role of astrology and its influence on expiatory rites is the central legitimacy in Post-Tantrasamuccaya scenario. The concept of Muhūrttaprāyaścitta strongly influenced the expiatory rites of Keralite Tantra. It also boosted the popularity of expiations and helped the priestly class and religious institutions to attain money and other properties.