Dasain Sacrifice

Some 200 people had gathered outside the temple. It was Navami, the ninth day of Dasahara. Another most important day in the 10-day Hindu festival when the victory of good over evil is celebrated. It was early morning. Probably around 8. A large group had made a circle around a place that had a wooden pole pierced to the ground. That placed was consecrated as holy. In early dusk, some apprentice priest had smeared cow dung around the pole. Actually, cow dung puts off the files.

People, mostly men, in sandals, boots, canvas stood waiting. Little kids with their muddy feet pushed their way to the inner circle. All waiting to see that ultimate moment.

A small crowd made their way toward the circle following a priest draped in white who carried a plate full of flowers and vermilion mixed with rice. A bundle of incense stick protruded out. Behind him was another man in white dhoti. Larger than everyone in the crowd. His chest was bare. In his right hand he carried a heavy machete that shone in the morning sun. Two strands of cloth, one in white and other in red were tied at the handle. Behind him, two men pulled a horn-less buffalo that marched quietly oblivious to its fate.

That was the beast everyone waited to appear. That was the beast that will represent this year's evil. That was the beast everyone will cheer when the large man will strike upon and separate its head with a swift stroke as the priest mumbles some obscure Sanskrit verses in praise of non-violence and peace.