ISBN 0.89281.019.X
Bhaskar Bhattacharyya
Inner Traditions, 1993.
Paperback, 198 pages
Lovers of the Red Fluid
Written by an initiated Baul, this is a most interesting and unique work. The author (and editor) shows clearly that menstruation is regarded among the Baul as very auspicious and powerful.
The Bauls live according to a philosophy that combines elements of the Tantric tradition with those of mainstream Hinduism, and they're especially devoted to the divine couple Radha and Krishna.
At home in eastern India, yet roaming the country with their songs, they spread the word that communion with the Divine can be achieved with the help of the body: by ritual, fe/male union and especially by making use of the forces inherent in menstrual fluid. It is because of this, that Bauls hardly ever practice their rituals at any other time than during the three and a half days of the menstrual period.
It should be no surprise that a people embedded in a tradition so much focused on this aspect of the female body, gain and develop a rather specialist knowledge concerning it; much of which is represented in this book.
The Baul's monthly ritual, 84 hours filled with music, passion and devotion, is known as Manifesting the Full Moon at the Time of the New Moon, and its final aim is to catch the uncatchable; the unique energy possessed only by women. By union with a menstruating woman, also a man can partake of the Goddess' powers which are distributed to him by way of a consenting woman.
Review: RCC
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