Rituals

Various kinds of ritual practiced, religious or 'Tantrik', has also been prevalent in the hills of Uttarakhand. 'Tantra' is a system of practices involving yoga, meditation, hypnosis, auto-suggestion, Asnas, exercise and self control for the fulfillment of worldly desires as well as the attainment of spiritual knowledge. The knowledge of 'Tantra' has been generally with the few known families in Uttaranchal belonging to 'Brahmin' and Scheduled caste families.

The knowledge was passed from one generation to another and it was also one of the traditional occupations of certain families in the hills. 'Tantra' has been practiced both for liberation from evil power as well as for the well being of the person or the family. While the practice of 'Tantra' has come down in the hills, this ancient knowledge is being fully utilised by many internationally known godmen and gurus to provide relief to the needy.