Sketch of the Religious Sects of the Hindus c7.s2.t4: Kancheliyas

c7.s2.t4.1

This is a sect of which the existence may be questioned, notwithstanding the assertion that it is not uncommon in the South of India; the worship is that of SAKTI, and the practices are similar to those of the Kaulas, or Vámácharis. It is said to be distinguished by one peculiar rite, the object of which is to confound all the ties of female alliance, and to enforce not only a community of women amongst the votaries, but disregard even to natural restraints. On occasions of worship, the female votaries are said to deposit their upper vests in a box in charge of the Guru. At the close of the usual rites, the male worshippers take each a vest from the box, and the female to whom the garment appertains, be she ever so nearly of kin to him, is the partner for the time of his licentious pleasures.*