SHADOWS
Supernatural Beings in Southeast Asian Folklore
by Hamant Singh
SHADOWS is a rare and evocative journey into the hidden realms of Southeast Asian folklore. Drawing on years of travel and immersion, Hamant Singh unveils spirits and entities largely unknown in the West—beings whispered about in the temples, forests, and back alleys of Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Myanmar.
Blending chaosophy with Theravāda thought, Singh offers not only tales but also esoteric insights and ritual fragments—gleaned from direct encounters and local traditions. The book features original artwork by Asian artists from across the region, bringing each spectral presence vividly to life. The author’s travels and experiences in different regions of Asia have allowed him to personally encounter the essence of these spirits, as well as collect various stories and methods to summon them.
A compelling volume for devotees of folklore, the occult, and Southeast Asian esotericism.
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Table of Contents
Preface
Acknowledgements
FOLKLORIC CREATURES OF SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA
Pontianak
Toyol
Penanggal
Orang Minyak
Hantu Tetek
Women in The Red Dress
Hungry Ghost Festival
LEGENDARY GHOSTS OF THAILAND AND LAOS
Krasue
Preta
Kuman Thong
Mae Nak Phra Khanong
Phi Kong Koi
LEGENDARY GHOSTS OF INDONESIA
Kuntilanak
Sundel Bolong
Pocong
Wewe Gombel
Jailangkung
Nyi Roro Kidul and Nyi Blorong
LEGENDARY GHOSTS OF VIETNAM
Ông Ba Bị
Ma Da
Ma Thần Vòng
Thần Trùng
Quỷ Nhập Tràng
Ma Gà
FOLKLORIC SPIRITS OF MYANMAR
Thagyamin
Naga Medaw
Ko Gyi Kyaw
Popa Medaw
Bo Min Gaung
FOLKLORIC CREATURES OF THE PHILIPPINES
Aswang
Kapre
Tiyanak
Kumakatok
Bakunawa
Manananggal
FOLKLORIC CREATURES OF CAMBODIA
Ahp
Preay
Banana Tree Ghost
Mreng Kongveal
Kon Krork
Glossary
Biography
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Hardcover Edition - Limited to 100 hand-numbered copies
208 pages. Hardcover bound in red cloth, with stamping in gold.
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About the Author
Hamant Singh is a writer and poet from Singapore inspired by the sublime, horror, and the occult practices of various cultures. His core philosophy blends chaosophy and Theravāda Buddhism. He also practices a combination of Asian magic and the Left-Hand Path.
He has published five books and has been nominated for the Rhysling Award (2022), the preliminary ballot of the Bram Stoker Awards (2023), and the Elgin Award (2023).
Hamant currently resides in Guadalajara, Mexico, where he continues to explore the occult intersections of East and West.