 Reference Base  The wild animals of the Indian Empire and the problem of ... |
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Prater, S.H., 1934. The wild animals of the Indian Empire and the problem of their preservation, part II. Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society 37 (1) Supplement: 57-96, pls. 15-36
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Culture |
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All Rhino Species |
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Many legends and beliefs are attached to this animal. In Europe, daring the Middle Ages its horn was generally believed. to have peculiar medicinal virtues.
In Nepal the flesh and the blood of the Rhinoceros is considered highly acceptable to the Manes. High caste Hindus and most Gurkhas offer libation of the animal's blood after entering its disembowelled body. On ordinary Sradh days the libation of water and milk is poured from a cup carved from its horn. The urine is considered antiseptic and is hung in a vessel at the principal door as a charm against ghosts, evil spirits and diseases. These beliefs connected with the Rhinoceros are prevalent in varying form in Burma, Siam and China. They set a great value upon the animal and provide the main reason for its persecution.
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