Tradition: Mongolian Mythology, Russian Mythology
Alternative Names: Shulmus, Shulmas, Shumnasy, Chulbusy, Chulgusy, Chulme, Chulmysy, Shimnus, Sholmosy, Shulmy, Shulbus, Shulbys
Category: Frog

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The Myth

Shulmusy are evil spirits of the underworld who enter the world of the living to spread harm and misfortune. They serve Erlik, the ruler of the underworld, and act as his messengers, bringing illness, stealing human souls, and carrying them down into the realm of the dead. They are often described as appearing in the form of a black whirlwind, resembling their dark master in both appearance and destructive nature.

Despite their terrifying nature, Shulmusy can also take the form of beautiful young women. In this guise, they deceive unsuspecting people and lure travellers into danger. Among the Kalmyks, these spirits may possess strange animal features, such as goat legs, a beard, a camel’s tail in place of a braid, or even the head of a frog. They can disguise themselves as attractive girls who offer travellers poisoned drinks, concealing their deadly intentions beneath a pleasing appearance.

Shulmusy gather in groups known as turgak, meeting at crossroads, mountain passes, and near gorges. These gatherings make such places dangerous to pass through, as the spirits may ambush travellers, spread sickness, or steal their souls. People therefore regard these locations with fear and caution, especially when crossing them near the spirits’ gathering places.

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Sources

“Шулмусы (Shulmusy).” New Bestiary (Bestiary.us). https://www.bestiary.us/shulmusy

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