KAUKAS
In Lithuanian mythology, Kaukas is the spirit of fertility, harvest, and wealth. Other names for Kaukas include Kaukutis, Kukas, and Pūkis. Kaukai spirits could be male or female, although males are more common. Kaukai were believed to visit or live in the homestead where they watched over its residents. It is said that Kaukai could be seen in the moonlight or on a foggy day. The annual spring festival, today known as Mardi Gras, was originally held in honor of the Kaukai spirits. The event was led by a masquerader called “boba” or “mother.” During the festival, participants wore masks (“kaukės”), dressed up as animals, and put horns on their heads.
AITVARAS
In Lithuanian mythology, Aitvaras is a divine creatue of the Pagan pantheon. He is the guardian of water, atmosphere, and clouds. Through his connection with the earth and its riches, Aitvaras brings people material wealth.
Aitvaras is commonly depicted as a rooster, heron, raven, air or fire serpent, black or fire staff, or a tornado breaking branches. Sometimes, Aitvaras is seen is a good creature and other times he is seen is a bad one. He works in secret without being asked. Aitvaras protects good people who have been wronged by others. He protects those who are not greedy and brings them all kinds of wealth: grain, flax, and money, usually taken from greedy rich people. Once a person has won favor with Aitvaras, he/she will experience no more misery, although the treasures brought by Aitvaras do not necessarily guarantee a positive future.
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