The Pishacha In ‘It Lives Inside,’ Analyzed: Unraveling The Terrifying Demons Of Hindu Mythology

Horror is a genre that thrives on the unknown, the supernatural, and the terrifying. In recent years, filmmakers have been exploring diverse mythologies and cultures to bring fresh, spine-chilling tales to audiences worldwide. It Lives Inside, a 2023 sleeper hit, introduced Western viewers to the hair-raising world of Pishachas, creatures deeply rooted in Hindu mythology.

What Exactly Is A Pishacha According To Hindu Mythology?

Pishachas are a type of vampire-like demon that lurk in the shadows of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. These malevolent beings are described as flesh-eating demons, often associated with the feminine. Their haunting appearance includes red, swollen eyes and bulging veins, instilling a sense of dread in those who encounter them. Pishachas are creatures of the night, haunting cremation grounds like many other supernatural beings in Hindu lore.

In Hinduism, Brahma, one of the Trimurti gods responsible for creation, is believed to have played a role in the genesis of Pishachas. Another legend connects their origin to Krodha, a Sanskrit word signifying “anger” or “wrath.” These legends hint at the deep connection between Pishachas and powerful deities or cosmic forces.

One captivating aspect of Pishachas is their status as a separate race from humanity. Unlike vampires or other supernatural creatures, humans do not transform into Pishachas. Instead, they can be possessed and controlled by these malevolent entities, becoming unwilling vessels for their dark desires. Pishachas are even believed to possess their own unique language known as Paishachi.

What makes Pishachas even more terrifying is their ability to change shape and, in some versions of the mythology, become invisible. They can enter the bodies of living humans, using them to feed on others, induce illnesses, or even drive their human hosts to madness. A chilling belief in some traditions suggests that anyone who encounters a Pishacha is doomed to die within nine months.

In Hindu traditions, various rituals and mantras are believed to protect against Pishachas. Chanting specific mantras can exorcise a person possessed by a Pishacha, while offerings and religious rites like puja are thought to keep households safe from these demonic entities.

The Horrors Of Pishachas In ‘It Lives Inside’

The film It Lives Inside, directed by Bishal Dutta, takes viewers on a harrowing journey into the heart of Pishacha mythology. This groundbreaking horror movie not only introduces audiences to a little-explored facet of Hindu folklore but also showcases unique camera techniques and storytelling that sets it apart in the genre. In the movie, a Pishacha terrorizes a small town, leaving a trail of carnage in its wake. While the creature remains concealed for much of the film, its appearance is nothing short of nightmarish when it is finally unveiled. However, the Pishacha depicted in It Lives Inside is rooted in the deep, unsettling lore of Hindu mythology, making it far more chilling than the typical Western horror monster.

The Pishacha, originating from Dharmic religions, particularly Hindu and Buddhist mythologies, is a manifestation of pure evil. In various legends, these demonic beings are described as having bulging veins, protruding red eyes, and the ability to shape-shift. While there is no single, definitive description of their appearance, they are often likened to the demonic entities seen in Christian mythology. Encounters with Pishachas are not necessarily a death sentence. Certain mantras and rituals are believed to drive them away and cure afflicted individuals. Offerings, particularly during religious ceremonies, are thought to keep these malevolent spirits at bay. These rituals typically center around family and food, offering a unique contrast to Western horror narratives where faith is the primary defense against evil entities.

Traditionally, Pishachas are creatures of the night, lurking in darkness and frequently haunting cremation grounds where they feed on negative energy. In some cases, they are known to possess human beings, manipulating their thoughts and driving them to madness. Instead of immediate physical harm, Pishachas take pleasure in tormenting their victims’ souls, often leading them to a gruesome end.

The Portrayal Of Pishachas In Popular Culture

The introduction of Pishachas in a Western horror film like It Lives Inside marks a significant shift in the portrayal of supernatural entities in popular culture. As Hollywood and other global film industries increasingly explore diverse mythologies and belief systems, we are presented with fresh, innovative narratives that challenge traditional Western horror tropes.

Pishachas, deeply entrenched in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, offer a unique lens through which to explore the concept of evil. In these belief systems, the battle between good and evil takes on a different form, with rituals, mantras, and offerings serving as the frontline defenses against malevolent forces. This distinct approach to horror brings a new layer of depth and cultural richness to the genre, enticing audiences with the unknown and the unexplored.

As horror cinema continues to evolve and diversify, we can anticipate more encounters with creatures like Pishachas from a myriad of cultural backgrounds. These encounters not only broaden our understanding of the supernatural but also provide fresh, spine-tingling stories that challenge our traditional expectations of fear.

In It Lives Inside, director Bishal Dutta has successfully brought the ancient horrors of Pishachas to a global audience, leaving viewers both terrified and intrigued. As the world of horror cinema continues to embrace diverse mythologies and cultures, we can look forward to many more nightmarish tales that delve into the depths of the unknown, taking us on hair-raising journeys into uncharted territory. The Pishachas are here to remind us that evil takes many forms, and the darkness that lurks in the shadows is far more complex and terrifying than we could ever imagine.

Does Praying To Goddess Durga Help Fighting Against This Demonic Entity?

Praying to Goddess Durga is a common practice in Hinduism, and it is believed that she possesses immense power and can provide protection against various malevolent forces, including Pishachas. In Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga is often depicted as a fierce warrior goddess who combats evil and upholds righteousness. While there is no specific scripture or mantra exclusively directed at warding off Pishachas, invoking Goddess Durga through prayers and rituals can offer a sense of spiritual protection and strength. Devotees often turn to her for help in times of distress, seeking her blessings to overcome obstacles and challenges, both physical and metaphysical.

It’s important to note that these practices are rooted in faith and belief, and their effectiveness may vary from person to person. While many people find solace and strength in their devotion to Goddess Durga, and believe that it provides protection from negative energies, the interpretation of such experiences can be highly subjective. Praying to Goddess Durga is a common and respected practice within Hinduism to seek protection from malevolent forces, including Pishachas. Devotees believe that invoking her presence and seeking her blessings can provide spiritual strength and safeguard against negative energies.