Back to Events
Bhoot
The ghosts of those who died violently or with unfinished business in South Asian tradition. They cast no shadow, speak with a nasal voice, and their feet hover above the ground or face backwards.
Ancient - Present
South Asia
10000+ witnesses
Bhoot (or Bhut) is the general term for ghosts in South Asian folklore.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
Bhoots:
- Are spirits of the dead
- Especially those who died violently
- Or with unfulfilled desires
- Haunt specific locations
- Can be benevolent or malevolent
Who Becomes a Bhoot
People become bhoots when:
- They die violently
- Die by suicide
- Have unfinished business
- Improper funeral rites
- Victims of injustice
Identifying a Bhoot
Signs include:
- Feet not touching ground
- Feet facing backwards
- Cast no shadow
- Nasal voice
- Cannot say certain words
Types
Various categories:
- Churel: Women who died in childbirth
- Pret: Male ghosts
- Nishi: Night spirits
- Petni: Female ghosts
- Many regional variations
Behavior
Bhoots typically:
- Haunt trees (peepal, banyan)
- Appear at night
- At crossroads
- Near water
- In abandoned buildings
Protection
Traditional defenses:
- Iron objects
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Religious mantras
- Proper funeral rites