Ghora Kalash, votive equestrian figure

Ritual terracottas like this horse rider are offered in two types of sacred spots in Darbhanga: brahmasthan and salheshstahna, associated with upper caste Hindus and humble Dushadhs respectively.

For upper caste Hindus, the terracotta horse rider is the embodiment of Brhmji, a Brahmin youth who died unmarried and whose disturbed soul is wandering around in search of a home. The equestrian terracotta serves as a receptable for the unincorporated soul of this youth who in turn protects the village from evil influences and harm.

These votive figures are offered at the brahmasthan, where offerings are made to them in form of flowers, vermillion and sweetmeats.

Among the Dushadhs, the terracotta horse rider is offered to Sailesh, a mythical hero who lived in Rajaji-ki-phulwari in the Terai region of Nepal. Generally, these figures are offered by devotees upon wish-fulfillment.

One instance of a visit to Saleshstan for making votive offerings was furnished by Uchit Dushad of Katharwari. Once his brother was accused of being involved in illicit traffic in women. Uchit knew that his brother was innocent. He therefore took a vow that if brother was honourably acquitted, he would offer a Ghora Kalash (horse rider) to Salheshsthan and also would attend the fair at Rajaji-ki-Phulwari near Jainagar.

Other figures found and Salheshsthan are Motiram, Sailesh's brother, his two body guards mounted on horses and the two malins or flower girls, Kushma and Dona.