The Dark Side ..

The depiction of Yakshi and Gandharva in Kerala is very different from the way they are typically presented in Puranic, Buddhist and Jain lore, where Yakshi is a tree-nymph, and Gandharvas were celestial musicians who entertained the gods.

In Kerala folklore, Yakshi is not always the benevolent kind, she is bloodthirsty who takes the form of a lovely lady with seductive charm. Similarly, the Gandharva, a charming seducer with a melodious voice can drive women mad. There is even a saying advising women never to sleep without undergarments to avoid "Gardharva Drishti"

What was the significance of the Jasmine or Pala flowers in these narrations as a prelude to seduction? Also, what is the connection to the Palm tree? Well, some enthusiasts or experts, whichever way you put it says that the smell of these flowers is very sexually stimulating (hence also scattered over the nuptial bed!). It is clear that the tree sprouts flowers that have a heavenly fragrance supposedly exciting to the carnal senses.

Do these narrations reveal anxiety about sex with strangers or were they created as a warning from unsafe sexual thrills.. best left to one's own imagination....