Sacred Fire Walking – Psychological Issues and Awareness Module in Karnataka

Abstract

This longitudinal study was conducted to understand the psychological issues involved in sacred fire walking where despite education, scientific knowledge, these rituals which undoubtedly have grave consequences are still being practiced with a belief that the sins will be punished and they shall lead a happy and prosperous life henceforth. So, a need to develop an awareness module along with psychotherapy in MBCC ward, Victoria hospital, Bengaluru was seen and this study was initialized. Hence for a period of 3 years from 2015 to 2018  in this study 27 patients were taken up of whom 10 succumbed to fire walking   and the remaining 17 survivors were administered psychotherapy to make them understand the precautions needed.