Note 208 — Chapter VI
Reading edition
The above is the Mūs proceeding; at Lapáti there is more elaboration. The spacious square of Elpanam is thoroughly cleared, and the huts and fences of the traders dismantled, a separate place in the jungle being given them. In the centre of Elpanam an iron spike (meráhta) is fixed and covered with leaves. Then the tamiluanas, adorned with silver and garlands, arrive in procession, and suddenly pulling up the pike, throw it into the sea. After washing their feet they come back to the dances.
This ceremony is by way of augury as to the prospects for the ensuing season.