Ghora: Waiting for the Goddess
Documentary Film Screening and discussion, May 18, 2016, 16:15–18:00
With Dr. Irene Majo Garigliano (Centre d’Etudes Himalayennes, CNRS, Paris), director of the documentary film
Cooperation
Institute of Asian and Oriental Studies – Indian Studies and URPP Asia and Europe
Location
Room RAA G-15, Rämistrasse 59, 8001 Zürich
Description
The Kāmākhyā Temple in Assam is regarded by many Hindus as being one of the most powerful sanctuaries of Devī (Goddess) in India. Every year in August Ghoras, men chosen as vehicles for the “play” (līlā) of Goddess, become possessed by the goddess Kāmākhyā and other deities of the temple complex and dance for three days to the beat of drums. The film focusses on two Ghoras in the different phases of the ritual performance.
