Travels in India (Tavernier) 129.1.5

129.1.5

On each side of this great pagoda there are other much smaller ones where the pilgrims make their smallest offerings, and those who, on account of sickness or in their business, have made a vow to some god, take there an image or semblance of the object in memory of the benefit which they believe they have received. This idol is anointed every day with scented oils which make him quite black. He has on his right hand his sister who is called Soiora, who is also represented standing and clothed; and on his left his brother, also clothed, who is called Balbader. In front of the great idol, somewhat to the left, his wife is to be seen, who is called Kemui, she is of massive gold, and represented standing, the three others are made of sandal wood. The two other pagodas are intended for the residence of the chief Brahmin, or High Priest, and the other priests who serve in the great pagoda. All these Brahmins go about with bare heads, and the majority are shaved, having for sole garment a piece of cloth, a part of which wraps round the body, and the remainder is worn like a scarf. Near the pagoda the tomb of one of their prophets, named Cabir, to whom they do great honour, is to be seen. It should be remarked that all these idols are on a kind of altar surrounded by gratings, for no one is allowed to touch them, with the exception of certain Brahmins appointed by the High Priest for that purpose.