Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
“HIJRAS” (CASTRATED MEN) ARE
WORSHIPPED AT BAHUCHARAJI
TEMPLE
Every day is a busy and exciting in India unless you intend to sit on a beach in Goa. If
you are blessed with great guide, like Niru, even more unique experiences come your way.
Understanding my love of unusual sights, whether it be a camel with three testicles, or Nu-
bian baby goats, he came up with a suggestion. Visit Bahucharaji Temple instead of the par-
tially ruined Sun Temple of Modhera. When he explained,
why
I might find Bahucharaji
Temple interesting, we jumped at the chance.
Hijra
(castrated males) are
worshipped
here.
Did you ever?
One, last breakfast at Rann Riders included a walnut cake that was so yummy, we went
back for seconds, thirds and fourths. A lone Mir woman and two young children were the
only ones sitting outside Rann Riders early this morning with their wares laid out. That made
it a lot easier to buy two beaded bracelets; I would bought more, but ex-Marine was throwing
a hissy fit. Into the car kept immaculately clean by driver Desheret, it was off to Bahucharaji
Temple.
The "short story" about
Hindu Goddess Bahucharaji
: “Marauder named Bapiya at-
tacked caravan with Bahuchara and sisters. Bapiya was cursed and became impotent. Curse
lifted when he worshiped Bahuchara by dressing and acting like woman. Bahuchara now is
now considered patron of, and worshipped, by the Hijra community in India.” End of story.
Who are the Hijra?
They can be either castrated males, men born with deformed gen-
itals, or men who prefer feminine gender identity, e.g. wear women's clothing. They live in
their own communities and are worshipped by those who believe they bring good luck and
fertility. Hijra are invited to perform religious ceremonies at weddings and births and, if not
invited, will show up uninvited at homes. These blessings are given in return for money. If
you don't donate, they may curse you, or what may be worse, lift up their skirts to show
what's left of their formerly manly parts. (
Everyone
, donates...)
We approached the entrance of Bahucharaji Temple, past sellers with religious
paraphernalia, flower offerings and picture of Goddess Bahucharaji riding on a
chicken
. The
Hindu religion has intricate traditions; one of which is every Hindu god or goddess rides
on a vehicle, whether it be an animal or bird. Bahucharaji rides a chicken, rooster but let's
not split hairs - rooster, chicken, poultry. It is also said that the goddess changes her vehicle
daily depending on her manifestation. Hmmm...
