Note 1 — Chapter II · HEROIC GODLINGS
Reading edition
Such diseases as cholera and small-pox are believed to be brought on by the wrath of the Mātās or Devis caused by neglecting to offer the usual oblations. In order to propitiate them, Brāhmans are engaged to recite the Chandipāth and to offer havans (sacrificial offerings). Very often the festival known as ujani is observed, in which all the villagers go outside the village to take their meals, and return home in the evening after witnessing the āhuti (the offering of cocoanuts to the sacrificial fire).1