Kali's Odiyya : A Shaman's True Story of Initiation

by Amarananda Bhairavan

A rare and exciting true story of worship and initiation in an culture that still exists today. Bhairavan writes of his experience of initiation into the world of Kali's odiyyas shamans of the goddess. We learn the goddess tradition first-hand and experience and exorcism, Kundalini training, astral travel, shape-shifting, healing, how to deal with the death of a shaman, and how this matriarchal society governs the devotees. Glossary. Index.

Genres: Spirituality

299 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Krishna Bharati · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't recommend this book highly enough. However, that does come with an important caveat. This book is multi-layered, it is a profound book of Initiation that will take you on a spiritual journey far beyond the boundaries of the limited world we know, especially as westerners. The main lessons are taught via the author's teacher, and a hidden manuscript found in the deep dusty darkness of the attic. The lessons from this text, allegedly written by an Aghori, are neatly symbolized in the discovery of the manuscript itself. Also, this is written in a very autobiographical style, even if embellished to serve its purpose. There is a love story entwined throughout this that may make some uncomfortable, but the purity of their love shines through the book, and when she gets ill and dies is a moment of particular pathos.

Come along with the author to his childhood village (apparently now no longer). Explore with him into ancient temple ruins hidden in a field of thorns, to the cabin of an Ahgori for their training, observe the discovery of his Otherworldy tribe. A tale so real, so authentic, that it makes you feel as if you are present in the story itself.

Allow the story, in all its complexity, its love, its lust, its spirituality, its adventures, its fear, its pathos, to take you on a Journey; make it to the end and you will be Enriched. There are very few books that one could say this about.

[Ellyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book transported me. I was mesmerized for weeks afterwards, sunk in a nostalgia for times and places I'm certain I have known before, and caught up in a bitter longing for ways of living, being, and seeing that feel impossibly remote.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books, I've read it three times. Highly recommend if you are interested in East Indian mysticism, as it is the true account of the initiation process of a young boy to become an "odiyya" (shaman) in a ancient culture.

[Anirudh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a book!

This book is about the life of the author who was born in a small village in Kerala where the society is matriarchal and all the members are devout worshipers of Kali.

The author writes about the traditions of the villagers, some of the rites and rituals they perform, his encounter with other realms, and about life/death/after-life according to the Hindu Karmic theory - all of them entwined in a love story.

The writing is lucid and fast paced.Almost like a murder mystery!

This book along with the Aghora series are a must-read for any individual interested in spiritual practices of ancient India.

[Teo Ojog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not many books can be considered as both real and fantasy in the same time, but this one does it brilliantly. It's a great story for non-believers and a great experience for those who believe. So it's a book good for many people who want to learn spirituality or just to read something good. Enjoy!

[Lynn Brunell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Profound...yes as another review said multi-layered that does begin to touch the levels in the book...I am not sure I could read it enough times to absorb it. Turned to this book today find something to show a friend about the levels of existence...there is a mind boggling passage I have yet to wrap my head around completely...
And I love the presentation of the earlier patriarchal society and Ganapathi...

[Ishdeone · Rating 5 out of 5]

After years of searching for this book and the next in the series , I finally managed to get hold of them. Exceptionally profound experience. Unlike American influenced tantric books that are gimmicks , this book takes you through a journey within the self towards the Divine mother.

So much of gratitude to the Author. A timeless collection indeed. Jai ma !

[Maria Fledgling Author Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating account of the Indian Kali sect and a spiritual initiation.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books I could read over and over.

[Amanda Peet]

good