Panchamakara. Transgressive Practices of Hindu Tantra

At the center of attention is panchamakara, a ritual complex primarily associated with the "left-hand" tantra and the kaula tradition. The author traces the origin of this ritual, its development, and the transition from triad to five elements, as well as demonstrating how their composition and meaning changed in various practice variants. A separate place is occupied by the transgressive nature of panchamakara: it concerns actions and symbols that consciously take the participant beyond social and religious prohibitions.