Fairy lore in South Asia's mountains and Garhwali hymn 'Daughter of the Hills'
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Fairy lore in the high mountains of South Asia and the hymn of the Garhwali fairy ‘Daughter of the Hills’1
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Ram Prasad Bhatt
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Fairy lore in the high mountains of South Asia and the hymn of the Garhwali fairy ‘Daughter of the Hills’1
Year: 2014 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.4462
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Summary of Fairy Lore in South Asia
1. Introduction
The essay "Fairy Lore in the High Mountains of South Asia" offers an in-depth exploration of the rich traditions surrounding fairies in the mountainous regions of South Asia, particularly those of Nuristan, Dardistan, and Garhwal. The text distinguishes between various types of fairies and their cultural significance, linking them to local practices, beliefs, and the interplay of religious influences, especially Hindu Tantrism and Islam. The research is structured in two parts: the first section provides a comparative overview of fairy traditions across regions, and the second part introduces a hymn dedicated to the fairy 'Daughter of the Hills,' revealing its functions and cultural background.
2. The Nature of Fairies
In the context of Himalayan folk traditions, fairies are described as beautiful, ethereal beings who inhabit remote, pure spaces such as mountain peaks and forests. They often possess a duality of being both benevolent and mischievous, sometimes captivating the hearts of young men or punishing wrongdoers, particularly women. These beings are often depicted as the unfulfilled spirits of young girls from Brahmin and Rajput families, whose tragic stories lead them to become fairies. Their existence is intricately linked to cultural practices such as worship, sacrifices, and fairy-related hymns, illustrating their role in the spiritual landscape of the region.
3. Fairy Relationships with Humans
Fairies maintain close and complex relationships with specific groups of humans, particularly hunters and herdsmen, who are believed to interact with the spirit world more frequently. These relationships are often characterized by rituals aimed at pleasing the fairies, whether through sacrifices or other offerings. The fairy culture emphasizes that certain animals, like wild goats, are deemed sacred, and their hunting is considered a sacrificial act pleasing to the fairies. In this context, male hunters often seek dreams or visions from fairies that guide them to successful hunts.
4. The Significance of Exorcisms
The presence of fairies can also lead to harmful spiritual experiences for those they interact with, which often necessitates the practice of exorcism. Specific rituals and exorcists, such as the Gārūṛī, are invoked to cleanse individuals possessed by these spirits. The rituals often involve the offering of items favored by the fairies, like colorful bangles and flowers, and may include animal sacrifices. Interestingly, the harmful nature attributed to fairies mirrors the complexities of human relationships within the cultural frameworks, representing broader themes of morality and ethics in the communities where these traditions persist.
5. Cultural and Religious Influences
Fairy traditions reflect a blend of indigenous beliefs and influences from Hindu Tantrism, resulting in a unique cultural landscape. The essay highlights how the fairy lore is intertwined with Tantric practices, and fairies are often associated with local deities and demonic spirits. This complex interaction reveals the importance of regional beliefs throughout history and underlines how the infusion of Brahmanical ideologies has historically characterized the worship of these supernatural beings. The transformation of these entities into more benevolent figures in some practices contrasts sharply with their often fearsome and capricious nature in local folk narratives.
6. Conclusion
The essay concludes by emphasizing the vibrant and multifaceted nature of fairy lore in South Asia, suggesting that these traditions provide insight into the cultural, social, and religious fabric of Himalayan communities. Fairies serve as a crucial link between the physical and spiritual realms, embodying the aspirations, fears, and moral complexities of the people. By examining these entities and their relationships with human society, the work sheds light on how local narratives around fairies have transformed over time, influenced by changing socio-political landscapes and intercultural exchanges. The continued relevance and adaptability of these traditions underscore their significance in contemporary South Asian folklore.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the essay?
The essay explores fairy-related traditions in the high mountains of South Asia, particularly in Nuristan, Dardistan, and Garhwal. It highlights similarities and differences in these areas and examines their connections with Hindu Tantrism.
Which areas does the essay specifically examine?
The essay concentrates on Nuristan, Dardistan, and Garhwal, especially the Bangan region. It occasionally references other areas like Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, emphasizing the role of fairy worship.
How does the essay classify fairy lore?
Fairy lore can be classified into three levels: direct experience and worship of fairies, stereotypes and characteristics related to fairies, and the depiction of fairies in oral and written fairy tales.
What are some common characteristics of fairies mentioned?
Fairies are often described as beautiful, blonde- or golden-haired, blue-eyed, and fair-skinned. They are thought to inhabit pure regions, typically on mountain peaks or in high alpine areas.
How do fairies interact with humans in these cultures?
Fairies interact closely with hunters and herdsmen, sometimes assisting them in locating game. Fairies can be both benevolent and malevolent, often demanding sacrifices and specified observances from humans.
What influences the perception of fairies in different regions?
The perception of fairies varies due to influences from Islam and mainstream Hinduism. These influences shape how fairies are worshipped, their characteristics, and their relationships with human societies.
What is the hymn presented in the second part about?
The hymn, titled 'Disā D Guṛī', is sung to honor various types of fairies in the Central Himalayan region. It highlights their qualities, relationships with demigods, and their cultural significance.
What role do Aujīs play in the cultural context?
Aujīs, often regarded as musicians within the Dalit community, perform ritual hymns. They are essential for invoking fairies, demigods, and other spirits during religious festivities and healing ceremonies.
What does the essay say about fairy characteristics?
Fairies in the essay are portrayed as protective yet unpredictable beings. They are associated with nature and often demand respect; they can be both nurturing and dangerous, particularly if disrespected.
How do these traditions reflect broader cultural themes?
The traditions surrounding fairies in the mountains reflect complex interactions of gender, morality, and cultural beliefs. Themes of purity, impurity, and the relationships between humans and the supernatural are evident.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Fairy lore in South Asia's mountains and Garhwali hymn 'Daughter of the Hills'”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Mountain:
Mountains play a significant role in fairy lore, with fairies often residing on mountain peaks or slopes like the Khait Mountain. They are also the setting for stories and beliefs about fairies who live in these high-altitude regions. [see source text or glossary: Mountain].
2) Village:
Villages in the fairy lore context are significant community spaces where fairies are believed to possess individuals and where rituals are performed to invoke or exorcise these spirits. [see source text or glossary: Village].
3) Disha (Disa):
Disā, or D guṛ, refers to 'daughter' in the local Himalayan folklore, highlighting the connection between fairies and familial ties within the mythological narratives of the region. [see source text or glossary: Disā].
4) Himalaya (Hima-alaya):
The Himalaya is the geographical setting for the fairy lore explored in the text, encompassing regions like Garhwal and Bangan, where various traditions and beliefs about fairies are prevalent. [see source text or glossary: Himalaya].
5) Deity (Deities):
Deities in these traditions, including fairies, require rituals and offerings from humans to maintain balance and avert their anger. [see source text or glossary: Deity].
6) Woman (Women):
Women play key roles in these traditions, often being the primary targets for fairy possessions and requiring elaborate rituals for relief. [see source text or glossary: Woman].
7) Goat:
Goats are significant in these traditions, often associated with fairies. They might be offered as sacrifices to appease the fairies or as part of their magical interactions. [see source text or glossary: Goat].
8) Valley:
Valleys, alongside mountains and ridges, form critical parts of the fairy lore geography, being the homes of various spirits and fairies in Garhwal and other regions. [see source text or glossary: Valley].
9) Saman (Shaman):
Shamans, known as Gārūṛī or Aujī, perform roles in invoking or exorcising spirits, crucial in rituals and healing practices related to fairy lore. [see source text or glossary: Shaman].
10) Temple:
Temples in these traditions serve as places for rituals and sacrifices to deities and fairies, playing a significant role in local religious practices. [see source text or glossary: Temple].
11) Animal:
Animals such as goats, sheep, and bees are closely associated with fairies in these traditions, often serving symbolic or sacrificial roles. [see source text or glossary: Animal].
12) Caste:
Caste plays an essential role in these traditions, with specific groups like the Aujī or Dūm involved in performing rituals and singing traditional hymns. [see source text or glossary: Caste].
13) Power:
Fairies and deities possess numinous energy called 'tēz,' influencing natural elements and human affairs through their divine power. [see source text or glossary: Power].
14) Human:
Humans interact with fairies through rituals, sacrifices, and observing taboos. They experience fairy possession and seek shamanic help for exorcism. [see source text or glossary: Human].
15) Religion:
The highlands of South Asia display a complex interplay of local religious practices involving fairies, influenced by broader Hindu and Islamic traditions. [see source text or glossary: Religion].
16) Sacrifice:
Sacrifices, often of animals like goats or sheep, are a critical aspect of rituals performed to appease or honor fairies and deities in the region. [see source text or glossary: Sacrifice].
17) Language:
Various languages and dialects, such as Garhwali and Bangani, enrich the vernacular traditions and oral literature relevant to fairy lore. [see source text or glossary: Language].
18) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantrism significantly influences the local beliefs and practices surrounding fairy worship, highlighting the syncretism present in these traditions. [see source text or glossary: Tantrism].
19) Family:
Fairies are often depicted as members of familiar structures, like daughters of certain deities or families, which underscores their intertwined relationship with humans. [see source text or glossary: Family].
20) Honey:
Honey holds special significance in these traditions, often linked with purity and fairy offerings, and associated with various ritual practices. [see source text or glossary: Honey].
21) White:
White is traditionally associated with purity and fairies, representing their ethereal and divine attributes in various folklore narratives. [see source text or glossary: White].
22) Sheep:
Sheep, similar to goats, play a significant role in these traditions, often involved in rituals and sacrifices dedicated to fairies and deities. [see source text or glossary: Sheep].
23) Matari:
Mātarī refers to a class of fairies believed to be spirits of young girls, involving several ritualistic practices and lore specific to the region. [see source text or glossary: Mātarī].
24) Hunting:
Hunting is intricately connected with fairy lore, where hunters often have spiritual interactions with fairies who control wild game. [see source text or glossary: Hunting].
25) Tree:
Specific trees like Himalayan cedar are considered to be dwelling places for fairies, representing their close ties with nature. [see source text or glossary: Tree].
26) Hinduism:
Local forms of Hinduism, influenced by Tantric traditions, deeply integrate with fairy lore and rituals in the highlands of South Asia. [see source text or glossary: Hinduism].
27) Tehri:
Tehri Garhwal is a region rich in fairy lore, with mountains like Khait considered significant sites for fairy habitation and related rituals. [see source text or glossary: Tehri].
28) Stone:
Stones mark significant ritual sites in villages, such as menhirs used to signify fairy boundaries or places of worship. [see source text or glossary: Stone].
29) India:
India, particularly the highlands of South Asia, serves as the primary geographical context for the discussed fairy lore and associated traditions. [see source text or glossary: India].
30) Black:
Black is often associated with protective measures against fairies, such as the wearing of dark clothes to avoid fairy attacks. [see source text or glossary: Black].
31) Warrior:
Warriors, alongside hunters, are often mentioned in fairy lore, with fairies engaging with them in various ritualistic and narrative contexts. [see source text or glossary: Warrior].
32) Nature:
Fairy lore emphasizes the deep connections with natural elements, such as mountains, animals, and plants, reflecting the intertwined relationship of nature and spirituality. [see source text or glossary: Nature].
33) House:
Fairies in Bangan have symbolic equivalents within houses called girias, which translate the village's spiritual power to individual family homes. [see source text or glossary: House].
34) Chariot:
Fairies and deities are often depicted traveling in chariots, symbolizing their divine movement between realms in local traditions. [see source text or glossary: Chariot].
35) Flower:
Flowers, particularly in fairytale narratives, are favored by fairies and used in rituals, symbolizing purity and natural beauty. [see source text or glossary: Flower].
36) Shrine:
Shrines dedicated to fairies in villages serve as focal points for worship and rituals, including offerings and sacrifices to appease these divine beings. [see source text or glossary: Shrine].
37) Aryan:
Aryan traditions influence the fairy lore found in the highlands, blending with other cultural and historical elements unique to the region. [see source text or glossary: Aryan].
38) Singing:
Singing traditional hymns (jāgars) is an integral part of invoking and narrating fairy lore, performed by specialized castes like the Aujīs. [see source text or glossary: Singing].
39) Forest:
Forests are frequently the habitats of fairies in folklore, associated with mystique and seclusion, and are common settings for rituals and sightings. [see source text or glossary: Forest].
40) Drum:
The drum, particularly the dhol, is a central instrument in rituals and hymns, guiding the invocation and rhythm of performances dedicated to deities and fairies. [see source text or glossary: Drum].
41) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit terms enrich the local languages and terminologies, especially in the context of hymns, rituals, and fairy lore, reflecting ancient cultural influences. [see source text or glossary: Sanskrit].
42) Priest:
Brāhmaṇ priests often officiate rituals involving fairies, overseeing offerings and ceremonies to maintain harmony between the spiritual and mortal worlds. [see source text or glossary: Priest].
43) Indus:
Fairy tales from Indus Kohistan shed light on the shared motifs and beliefs about fairies that extend across the highland regions of South Asia. [see source text or glossary: Indus].
44) Image:
Images, such as mohras, represent deities and are often housed in temples or shrines, playing a crucial role in religious and ritual practices. [see source text or glossary: Image].
45) Indu (Imdu):
[see source text or glossary: Indu]
46) Milk:
Milk holds sacred value in these traditions, often considered a pure offering for fairies and deities, symbolizing fertility and divinity. [see source text or glossary: Milk].
47) Pashupata (Pasupata):
Pāśupata practices reveal the historical religious syncretism in the region, influencing local beliefs and fairy worship. [see source text or glossary: Pāśupata].
48) Festival:
Festivals feature prominently in the rituals and practices of fairy lore, marking times when communities engage in worship and celebration. [see source text or glossary: Festival].
49) River:
Rivers and other water bodies are significant as habitats or sacred sites connected to fairies, where rituals and sightings are often reported. [see source text or glossary: River].
50) Veda:
Vedic traditions play a background role, contributing to the rich tapestry of religious and fairy lore found in the high mountains of South Asia. [see source text or glossary: Vedic].
51) Lakulisha (Lakulisa, Lakuli-isha):
Lakulīśa is a significant figure in Pāśupata tradition, with his imagery and symbolism influencing local religious practices and beliefs about divine power. [see source text or glossary: Lakulīśa].
52) Kashmir:
Kashmir forms a crucial part of the geographical and cultural backdrop of the discussed traditions, showing intersections of Hindu and fairy beliefs. [see source text or glossary: Kashmir].
53) Music:
Music, particularly drumming and singing, plays an essential role in invoking and narrating fairy lore, performed by specialized groups like the Aujīs. [see source text or glossary: Music].
54) Snake:
Snakes, especially divine nāgas, often appear in the narratives, symbolizing the intertwined nature of fairies and serpents in local beliefs. [see source text or glossary: Snake].
55) Blood:
Blood from sacrifices is considered highly sacred and is offered to deities and fairies, believed to hold animating energy pleasing to them. [see source text or glossary: Blood].
56) Naga (Nag):
Nāgas, or snake deities, show strong affiliations with fairies in the region, often appearing in myths and rituals related to fertility and protection. [see source text or glossary: Nāga].
57) Young girl:
Young girls are often the subjects of fairy lore, believed to be the spirits of deceased girls who roam the mountains and forests. [see source text or glossary: Young girl].
58) Practice:
The practices surrounding fairy lore include rituals, sacrifices, and oral recitations, forming a crucial part of the local religious traditions. [see source text or glossary: Practice].
59) Worship:
Worship involves a series of rituals performed to honor and appease deities and fairies, including offerings, songs, and sacrifices. [see source text or glossary: Worship].
60) Genital:
Genitals are the focus in certain transgressive rituals and stories within fairy lore, symbolizing fertility and divine power. [see source text or glossary: Genital].
61) Indian:
The Indian context provides the cultural and geographical setting for the fairy lore presented, including regions like Garhwal and Himachal Pradesh. [see source text or glossary: Indian].
62) Cattle:
Cattle, like goats and sheep, play significant roles in sacrifical rituals and are associated with purity and offerings in fairy lore. [see source text or glossary: Cattle].
63) Delhi:
Delhi, as the contemporary cultural hub, contrasts with the traditional societies of the highlands, where the discussed fairy lore persists. [see source text or glossary: Delhi].
64) Demon:
Demons are part of the supernatural beings in these traditions, often requiring rituals and exorcisms to protect the community from their influence. [see source text or glossary: Demon].
65) Game:
Game animals hunted by humans belong to the fairies in these traditions, symbolizing their control and protection over wild fauna. [see source text or glossary: Game].
66) New Delhi:
New Delhi, as the present-day cultural and administrative center in India, represents the modern world that often contrasts with the traditional fairy lore of the highlands. [see source text or glossary: New Delhi].
67) Musician:
Musicians, especially those from the Aujī caste, play a critical role in singing and drumming for rituals related to fairy lore. [see source text or glossary: Musician].
68) Brahmin:
Brahmins oversee the religious ceremonies involving deities and fairies, ensuring the correct ritualistic practices are followed. [see source text or glossary: Brahmin].
69) Kalasha (Kalasa):
The Kalasha traditions offer comparative insights into the shared fairy lore and animistic beliefs prevalent across the highlands of South Asia. [see source text or glossary: Kalasha].
70) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma signifies scholars who have documented the traditional practices and folklore, contributing to the understanding of regional fairy lore. [see source text or glossary: Sharma].
71) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi, such as Maheshwar Prasad Joshi, have contributed scholarly insights into the historical and religious context of fairy lore in the highlands of South Asia. [see source text or glossary: Joshi].
72) Earth:
Mother Earth, māṭi, is figuratively the birthplace of various supernatural beings, including fairies, indicating their deep connection with the land. [see source text or glossary: Earth].
73) Night:
Night is a pivotal time in fairy lore when many of the supernatural events occur, including fairy apparitions and possessions. [see source text or glossary: Night].
74) Rice (Rce):
Rice is often used in rituals and offerings to fairies, signifying prosperity and fertility central to many of these traditions. [see source text or glossary: Rice].
75) Love:
Love, often unfulfilled, is a recurring theme in fairy lore, with fairies falling in love with young men or women, leading to possession or transformation. [see source text or glossary: Love].
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 89]