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Churel
The ghost of a woman who died during pregnancy or childbirth—especially if mistreated by her in-laws. She appears beautiful from the front but her feet face backwards. She drains the life from young men.
Ancient - Present
South Asia
5000+ witnesses
The Churel (also Chudail) is a vengeful female ghost from South Asian folklore.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Churel:
- Spirit of woman who died in childbirth
- Or from mistreatment during pregnancy
- Seeks revenge on men
- Has backwards-facing feet
- Extremely dangerous
Origin
A woman becomes Churel when:
- She dies during pregnancy
- Dies in childbirth
- Is mistreated by husband’s family
- Dies during menstruation
- Faces injustice in life
Appearance
The Churel appears:
- Beautiful from the front
- Attracts young men
- Feet face backwards (key identifier)
- Sometimes has elongated features
- May reveal true hideous form
Protection
Traditional defenses:
- Proper burial rites crucial
- Mustard seeds on grave
- Nails in feet of corpse
- Iron pins
- Religious ceremonies