Head to a little temple in Mahim to experience how Mumbai's Wiccans usher in festivities
"Let me begin by clarifying that we are not devil worshippers. It's a huge misconception. In fact, we worship Mother Nature, and our only motto is: 'Do as you will, but harm none,'" says Angel Serrao, a Wiccan High Priest and proprietor of The Wiccan Shop in Mahim. Tonight, the temple attached to the shop will be the venue for a Halloween abundance ritual that will be attended by practising Wiccans from across the city. Wicca is a neo-pagan religion that was born in England in the 20th century. "The founder of the religion took elements of several of the world's religions and incorporated them in witchcraft," explains Serrao. Today, the religion has followers across the world, most notably in the UK and US.
The Temple of the Triple Moon Goddess, where the ritual will be held
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It turns out that Halloween does have a lot to do with witches, but not in the way you would imagine. "For Wiccans, October 31 is the start of the New Year, and is called Samhain [pronounced sah-wen]. It is a time to remember and honour our ancestors, as well as a time to promise to heal Mother Earth, so we can be blessed to receive spiritual growth, health and wealth in abundance," explains Serrao, who used to be a practising Catholic before he turned to Wicca 13 years ago.
Angel Serrao (right) with fellow Wiccans
According to Serrao, there are 10,000 Wiccans in Mumbai. He adds, "However, most are still in the closet because they're worried about how society or their families will perceive them. Unfortunately, many still see Wiccans as evil, which is misinformation put out by the major religions."
ON: Tonight, 8 pm onwards
AT: The Wiccan Shop, Shop No 6, Aloo Paroo House, LJ Cross Road No 2, opposite JK Bank, Mahim West.
CALL: 8080313333
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