It is believed that mastery over ghosts can be obtained by dint of incantations or mantras. Those who subjugate ghosts in this way have power to command them to do their behests. But the process by which such powers are procured is believed to be beset with dangers, and many lose their lives in so doing.[52]
There is also a belief that a bhut or ghost can be brought under control by lopping off a lock of its hair or top knot and keeping it in one’s custody.[53]
It is said that this lock ought to be kept inside the right thigh by tearing a hole in the flesh. It is believed that the thigh can be cut open by a hair of the ghost without injury.[54]
The ghost so subjugated should never be kept unemployed; otherwise it oppresses its master.[55]
It is believed that the spirits of deceased persons become ghosts under the following conditions:—
1 If scriptural ceremonies are not performed with the ceremonial offerings of rice balls to the deceased.
2 If the deceased dies with a strong attachment to worldly objects.
3 If the death is unnatural that is, caused by an accident.
All ghosts get absolution by the performance of propitiative ceremonies by their descendants as prescribed in the scriptures.[56]
There are various beliefs current as to the state of the soul after death. The Garud purān contains many passages illustrating its movements after it leaves the body. Says the book:—