This figure, riding on a stylised tiger, is a bronze Pilichamundi Bhoota (Bhuta) from South Kanara/Kerala. Pilichamundi is a name composed of “Pilli” (Tiger in Tulu language) and “Chamundi”, a ferocious form of the Hindu divine mother goddess. The tiger’s significance is said to be as a protector of cattle and crops sent to Earth by Shiva. It is being ridden by a figure wearing a crown and jewellery. Bhootas (Bhutas) are deities and spirits worshipped widely in South Kanara, the coastal areas of Karnataka as well as in Kerala. They are generally considered deities, such as apotheosized local heroes or heroines or the spirits of wild animals dwelling in forests. The Bhootas (Bhutas) are closely related to and also embody the wild, dangerous, and fertile aspects of divine power.
