SWINGING FESTIVAL. 103
the interior is approached by the “ Mantapas,” a kind of
portico, which always covers and precedes the door
leading to the cell; besides there are several pillared
halls, called “ Choultries,” used for various purposes ;
but the mysterious adytum or inner cell is kept in
utter darkness, excepting a small light faintly illuminating
the image of the God, which seems ever so
far off, and here no Christian is allowed to enter.
There is also a very large tank within the enclosure,
steps leading down to the water’s edge and bathing
booths and shrines around. On the other side a
platform, raised several feet, and supporting one
hundred granite columns, covered with carvings
representing the exploits of their gods, and in their
midst rises a large throne of the same material, where
Mahadeva is placed during the festival. In front of
the temple there is a tall gilt column for the display
of m a n l y fortitude in the service of the deity; here,
on the Churuk Puja, or swinging festival, now
abolished, fanatics had a hook passed through their
skin at the small of the back, and allowed themselves
to be swung round and round, the real support, however,
being the kumarbund or waistband; besides
there is quite a labyrinth of columns and pavilions, and
on feast days the scene is said to be very imposing.
Of course every temple has its band of musicians and