Who mourns for her? The death and Re-death of Yakshi
Femme fatale; folklore; ghost; monstrous feminine; reincarnation; supernatural
In the Indian cultural lexicon, the term Yakshi refers to an enigmatic supernatural entity whose disposition can oscillate between benign and malevolent. This duality underscores the ambiguity and complexity inherent in traditional Indian narratives concerning gender and paranormal beings. In regional narratives from the southern state of Kerala, Yakshi embodies both demonic and divine essence. This phenomenon reflects a complex interaction between cultural beliefs, supernatural lore, and practices aimed at controlling or neutralising perceived threats from beyond the human realm. This paper focuses on investigating and delineating the progression leading to the death of Yakshi and analysing the subsequent integration into the natural environment. By examining literary/cultural narratives alongside gender and environmental symbolism, this study seeks to understand the transformation of Yakshi from a mythical figure to an intrinsic part of nature, particularly in the ambiguities surrounding Yakshis death, burial and mourning. 2026 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
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https://doi.org/10.1080/13576275.2026.2640412 https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105032240105?origin=resultslist
Jayan G., Department of English and Cultural Studies, Christ University, Bengaluru, India