Masaan (मसाण) The spirit which rules the both world -1

Masaan Devta

Now, let's shift our focus from the demigods (Devi and Devta) to the Masaan (मसाण) spirits, which are believed to rule both worlds. Some people consider them as the spirits residing in the regions of Uttarakhand, while others place them in the category of local devtas. There is a popular saying among the locals living in the area.

कितना ही शहरों में रह लो

मसाण पूजने घर ही आना पड़ेगा लिख के लेलो

In Uttarakhand, people are afraid of Masaan spirits. These spirits are often found in deep forests near small water streams (Gadh and Gadhere), at "Sangams" where two rivers meet, and near cremation grounds. It is believed that passing by these places, especially at night, makes individuals vulnerable to being possessed by Masaan. "In local folklore known as "Jagar," there is a famous incident involving Gangnath Devta, a local demigod who, at the age of 13, was believed to have been possessed by "Masaan of Kali Ghat." According to the folktales, when Masaan of Kali Ghat demanded its share from Gangnath Devta and he refused, a war ensued between them for seven days. Unable to defeat Masaan, Gangnath Devta prayed for help from the local deity, Golu Devta. Golu Devta intervened and took Masaan of Kali Ghat away. Since that event, people have been praying to Golu Devta before praying to Gangnath Devta."

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The Department of Culture and Religion of India provides a comprehensive understanding of Masaan, referring to them as local demigods known as "Masaan Devta." According to their beliefs, Masaan are spiritual entities that inhabit cremation grounds, often described as the spirits of these sacred places. They are believed to predominantly reside in the proximity of the confluence, known as "Sangams," of two rivers. Dedicated temples honoring Masaan Devta can be found in "Kakdi Ghat" and "Kandar Khua" near Kosi in Uttarakhand. Possession by Masaan spirits is considered significant, as individuals affected by this state are said to be unable to recall the cause of their possession, attributing it to the influence of Masaan. Descriptions depict Masaan as dark and distorted entities, contributing to an eerie mystique surrounding their presence. Masaan is believed to originate from the ashes of the dead. It is said that Masaan haunts people and can even cause illness or death. In the Uttarakhand region, when a person is believed to be possessed by Masaan, the only way to heal them is through a ritual called "Jagar," during which local deities are called upon to help and cure the affected person.

During the pooja ceremony, offerings in the form of "Bali" such as alcohol, black and red cloth, flour, coconut, supari, and laung are presented to the Masaan devta. In some cases, when healing seems insurmountable, the Kuldevi and Kuldevtas are invoked for assistance. These rituals often take place at night near cremation grounds and are conducted by local priests known as Gurus. Elaborate arrangements are made, and the Masaan Devta is honored with various offerings as part of the ceremony.

Myths and stories like those involving Masaan serve multiple purposes beyond literal truth. They can encapsulate moral lessons, cultural values, and shared identity. These narratives often provide frameworks for understanding the world and human experience that transcend the boundaries of logic.