Wild, rambunctious, male forest spirits, the Gandharvas are the sexy counterparts and companions of the Apsaras. Many, although not all Gandharvas are equine spirits. They are virile spirits, sometimes blamed for seducing, loving, and leaving young girls. They’re fertility spirits, and so the abandoned girls tend to be pregnant and left to face the music alone. (Alternatively, Gandharvas take the fall for illicit pregnancies.) Gandharvas may be invoked to heal infertility and miraculously cause conception. They may be petitioned for exceptional musical skills, too.

Gandharvas are celestial musicians. The Rig Veda calls them guardians of Soma.

ORIGIN:

India

FAVOURED PEOPLE:

Musicians

SEE ALSO:

• Apsara

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.