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 RAKSHASAS    
       A Rakshasa is a type of demon that exists in both Hindu and Buddhist folklore and mythology as well as religion - they are seen as man-eaters and cannibals as well as wicked creatures akin to the Western concept of devils, they have conflicting origins depending on the text but are generally believed (at least in Hindu texts) to have been particularly wicked humans who were transformed into their demonic state via reincarnation - despite their largely negative nature it was believed that their were good Rakshasas as well as evil ones.


        Legend

     
          The origins of the Rakshasas is unknown due to conflicting stories, The Ramayana states that they were created from the foot of Brahma to protect the primeval waters. The demon, Ravana, was their king. Other sources refer to the rakshasas as the descendants of Pulastya or the children of the Vedic goddess of death, Nirriti, and her consort Nirrita, & even as the children of Khasa.
   
   In terms of appearance, rakshasas are described as yellow, green, or blue with vertical slits for eyes, matted eyes, large bellies, and five feet, as well as having poisonous fingernails that can kill humans. They tend to take on the appearance of animals such as dogs, vultures, and owls, but can also appear as humans.

    Rakshasas were notorious for disturbing sacrifices, desecrating graves, harassing priests, possessing human beings and generally causing destruction and mischief. Their fingernails were said to be venomous and they fed on human flesh and spoiled food. They are mischievous creatures that inhabit cemeteries, destroy sacrifices, and possess humans (through food) causing insanity and illness. Many rakshasas were cruel humans in a past life.