THΣ LΩRD IҒ THΣ CΣMΣTRΨ
These are rather colorful characters with very memorable (if not shocking) costumes and masks. But these are not the main deities of the Mysteries. Yes, rather, these are minor characters, however in the mystery they, as a rule, appear first and the first to dance their dance.
The “Lord of the Cemeteries" (Skt. Chatipati; Tibet. Dur-Bdag; Buryat. Khokhima or Hokhimai) is a character in a mask depicting a skull. The costume of the character wearing this mask is usually painted under the skeleton.
Most often, the Lord of the cemeteries (Hochim) acts as a pair, as it is prescribed by the legend. In Nepal, the Lord of the cemeteries is called Rui-rank (“Master of Bones”). In Tsama, the Lords of the cemeteries appear at the beginning of the mystery and after the dance of the White Elder and are considered satellites to the death god Yamaraja. Their main duty is to torture a doll (ling) made of dough, which symbolizes evil (the enemy of faith). Another important task of Chitipati is the removal of “litter” (and I want to say from the hut) or “tormy”, as well as the protection of this attribute throughout the rite.
