Alkarisi is a creature from Turkish and Altay folklore that is believed to attack women and horses during the postpartum period. The legend of Alkarisi has its roots in shamanism, and it is still widely believed in some regions of Turkey. According to the legend, Alkarisi feeds on the lungs of new mothers and newborn babies, causing them to become ill or even die.
There are different versions of the Alkarisi legend, but most of them describe the creature as a female demon with long hair and sharp nails. Some legends also suggest that Alkarisi can shape-shift into different animals or objects, making it difficult to identify and capture. Despite being a fictional creature, Alkarisi has had a significant impact on Turkish culture and has been the subject of many books, movies, and TV shows.
While the existence of Alkarisi is not scientifically proven, the legend has become an essential part of Turkish folklore and continues to be passed down from generation to generation. Whether it is a myth or not, the story of Alkarisi serves as a reminder of the importance of postpartum care and the dangers that women and newborn babies face during this vulnerable period.
Origins of Alkarisi
Folklore and Mythology
Alkarisi is a demon-like creature that is believed to be present in the folklore and mythology of many communities of Turkic and Altaic origin. According to the legends, Alkarisi is an evil woman who is known to cause physical and psychological disorders. She is often described as a shape-shifter, taking on the form of a beautiful woman to lure men into her trap. Once she has entrapped them, she reveals her true form, which is that of a hideous creature with sharp teeth and long claws.
Cultural Significance
Alkarisi holds significant cultural importance in the communities where it is believed to exist. It is often associated with childbirth, with new mothers and newborns being particularly vulnerable to its attacks. In some communities, it is believed that Alkarisi can cause miscarriages or stillbirths. To protect themselves and their newborns from Alkarisi, women often wear amulets or recite prayers.
The belief in Alkarisi is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the communities where it is present. It is often passed down from generation to generation through stories and folklore. While some may dismiss it as superstition, for those who believe in its existence, Alkarisi is a very real and present danger that must be guarded against.
Characteristics of Alkarisi
Physical Description
Alkarisi is a female entity believed to be a demon that appears in the form of a beautiful woman. According to the beliefs of people who have encountered her, she has long, black hair, and her eyes are often described as being piercing and hypnotic. Her skin is said to be pale and flawless, and she is known to wear a long, flowing dress that is typically white or black.
Behavioral Traits
Alkarisi is commonly believed to be a malevolent spirit that preys on women, particularly those who have recently given birth. It is believed that she enters the homes of new mothers and torments them with nightmares and visions of death. Some people believe that she is responsible for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other unexplained infant deaths.
In addition to her malevolent behavior towards new mothers and infants, Alkarisi is also believed to be a shape-shifter. Some people claim that she can take on the form of a snake or other animal, while others believe that she can transform into a beautiful woman to lure men to their deaths.
Overall, the beliefs surrounding Alkarisi are deeply rooted in superstition and fear. While there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of this entity, her legend continues to be passed down through generations in certain cultures.
Alkarisi in Modern Media
Literature
Alkarisi, the mythical creature who is believed to kill newborn babies, has been the subject of many literary works. In recent years, several authors have written books about Alkarisi, exploring its origins and the impact it has on the lives of people who believe in it. These books have helped to keep the legend alive in modern times.
One such book is “The Legend of Alkarisi” by Ece Temelkuran, which tells the story of a young woman who is haunted by the creature. Another book is “Alkarisi: The Dark Folk Tale” by İlyas Soner Yıldırım, which explores the origins of the legend and its impact on a small village in Turkey.
Film and Television
Alkarisi has also made its way into modern film and television. In 2022, a short film titled “Alkarisi” was released, which tells the story of a woman who stays in the country house of her grandmother with her illegitimate newborn baby. She hears of a creature named Alkarisi, which is rumored to kill newborn babies, haunts her village and finds herself in the middle of a dark folk tale.
In addition, Alkarisi has been featured in several documentaries, including “The Beliefs of Alkarisi in Agri,” which explores the origins of the legend and its impact on the lives of people in the region. These films and documentaries have helped to keep the legend of Alkarisi alive in modern times, and continue to captivate audiences around the world.
Preventative Measures
Preventing Alkarisi infestation is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. The following are some traditional and contemporary methods of preventing Alkarisi infestation.
Traditional Methods
For centuries, people have been using traditional methods to prevent Alkarisi infestation. One of the most effective ways is to keep the living environment clean and tidy. Regularly cleaning floors, walls, and furniture can help prevent Alkarisi from establishing their nests.
Another traditional method is to use natural repellents. People have been using herbs such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus to repel Alkarisi. These herbs can be used as essential oils, or they can be placed in sachets and scattered around the house.
Contemporary Practices
Contemporary practices for preventing Alkarisi infestation include the use of chemical pesticides. Chemical pesticides are effective in killing Alkarisi; however, they can be harmful to humans and pets. Therefore, it is important to use them with caution and follow the instructions carefully.
Another contemporary method is to use electronic devices that emit ultrasonic waves. These devices are designed to repel Alkarisi, and they are safe for humans and pets. They work by emitting high-frequency sound waves that are not audible to humans but are irritating to Alkarisi.
In conclusion, preventing Alkarisi infestation requires a combination of traditional and contemporary methods. Keeping the living environment clean and tidy, using natural repellents, and using electronic devices that emit ultrasonic waves are all effective ways of preventing Alkarisi infestation.
Alkarisi Sightings
Historical Accounts
Alkarisi, also known as Albasan, is a supernatural creature from Turkish folklore. Historical accounts of Alkarisi sightings date back centuries. According to legend, Alkarisi is a female demon who haunts pregnant women and newborn babies. She is often depicted as an ugly woman with long hair and wears a red dress.
In the past, people believed that Alkarisi was responsible for the death of newborn babies. They would take precautions to protect their infants from her by hanging garlic and other herbs around their cribs. Some even believed that the only way to get rid of Alkarisi was to perform an exorcism.
Recent Reports
While Alkarisi sightings are less common today, there have been some recent reports of encounters with the supernatural creature. In 2015, a Turkish horror movie titled “Alkarisi: Cinnet” was released, which brought attention to the legend of Alkarisi.
In 2022, a short film titled “Alkarisi” premiered at the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival in India. The film tells the story of a woman who learns that Alkarisi is haunting her village and finds herself in the middle of a dark folk tale.
Despite the lack of recent sightings, the legend of Alkarisi continues to be passed down through generations in Turkish folklore. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting newborn babies and pregnant women from harm.
Academic Research
Anthropological Studies
Alkarisi beliefs have been the subject of anthropological studies for many years. Researchers have explored the historical and cultural significance of these beliefs, as well as their impact on the communities that hold them. These studies have helped to shed light on the complex social and religious structures that underpin Alkarisi beliefs, and have provided valuable insights into the ways in which these beliefs are transmitted from generation to generation.
Paranormal Investigations
In addition to anthropological studies, Alkarisi beliefs have also been the subject of paranormal investigations. Researchers have attempted to document and explain the supernatural phenomena associated with these beliefs, including sightings of Alkarisi herself. While many of these investigations have been inconclusive, they have helped to fuel popular interest in Alkarisi and her role in Turkish folklore.