228 SKETCH OF THE 



The followers are considered as very numerous, especially amongst the 

 Brahmanical tribe : all classes are however admissible, and are equal and 

 alike at the ceremonies of the sect. In the world* they resume their 

 characteristic distinctions, and wear the sectarial marks, and usually 

 adopt the outward worship of any other division, whether orthodoxical or 

 heretical. When they assume particular insignia, they are a semi-circular 

 line or lines on the forehead, of red saunders or vermillion, or a red streak 

 up the middle of the forehead, with a circular spot of red at the root of the 

 nose. They use a rosary of Rudraksha seeds, or of coral beads, but of 

 no greater length than may be concealed in the hand, or they keep it in 

 a small purse, or a bag of red cloth. In worshipping, they wear a piece 

 of red silk round the loins, and decorate themselves with garlands of 

 crimson flowers. 



KANCHELIYAS. 



This is a sect of which the existence may be questioned, notwith- 

 standing 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 Vdmdcharis. 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 disre- 

 gard even to natural restraints. On occasions of worship, the female 



" Whilst the Bhairavi Tantra is proceeding, all casts are Brahmans — when it is concluded, 

 they are again distinct." Sydma Ralia&ya. According to Ward, such of them as avow their creed, 

 leading at the same time a mendicant life, are termed Vyaktavadhiitas, or they who are ©penly free 

 from restraints : those who conceal their creed and observe its practices in privacy, are termed 

 Guptdvadhutas, the liberated in secret. II. 296. 



