There are others who are of opinion that the entry of evil spirits into the circle can be prevented only by calling upon God not to allow the evil spirits to enter it.[69]
When an evil spirit is expelled from the body of a person, it is buried underground, a circle of water is made round the spot and an iron nail is driven into the ground, in order that it may be imprisoned there.[70]
If anybody step into such a circle, the evil spirit confined therein takes possession of him, and is thus freed.[71]
To prevent this, evil spirits are generally confined in secluded spots.[72]
As the circle drawn by the point of a sword is a protection against an evil spirit, those who go to the burning ground to propitiate or subjugate evil spirits, seat themselves in such circles while reciting mantras.[73]
After entering the circle, some people recite the name of Hanumān, Chandi or Bhairav.[74]
Some people, after seating themselves in the circle, make offerings to the evil spirits, while reciting mantras, to propitiate them more easily. The Kāli chaudas or the fourteenth day of the dark half of Ashvin is considered a suitable day for propitiating or subjugating evil spirits.[75]
There are various superstitious beliefs entertained by people regarding omens.
1. If when leaving the house on a visit or with some definite object in view, a deer crosses one’s path from right to left, it is considered a bad omen, while crossing from left to right is considered good. On returning home, this omen is read in the reverse way to that just stated.[76]
2. When starting on a journey, the braying of an ass on the right is a good omen and on the left, evil.[77]