Yach

Pedestal with Yaksha and two lions, 9th century, Kashmir
Image: metmuseum

We know the story…

“In the modern folk-lore of Kashmir, the Yaksha has turned into the Yech or Yach [Yo’c’he], a humorous, though powerful, sprite in the shape of a civet cat of a dark colour, with a white cap on his head. This small high cap is one of the marks of the Irish fairies, and the Incubones of Italy wear caps, “the symbol of their hidden, secret natures.” The feet of the Yech are so small as to be almost invisible, and it squeaks in a feline way. It can assume any shape, and if its white cap can be secured, it becomes the servant of the possessor, and the white cap makes him invisible.”

~ ‘The popular Religion and Folklore of Northern India’ (1896) by W. Crooke
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The setup for the offering.

Khetchi Mawas, foodies’ peace treaty with Yakshas
Khich Mavas: a Feast for Yetis and Dogs

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Previously:
Ghoul, Goblin, Succubi and Other Ethereal Preternatural Beings of Kashmir

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