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Monstrum

Fire Cat or Fire Cart? The History of Japan’s Kasha

Season 3 Episode 11 | 12m 48s

Swooping down from the heavens on a fire ball, the Kasha drags the bodies of the dead to the underworld for a life of damnation. Most frequently depicted as a demonic, flaming cat, the kanji for ‘Kasha’ actually translates to “Fire Cart". This episode explores the religious and artistic history of the Kasha and takes a look at the significant role of cats in Japanese culture.

Aired: 08/10/21
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Watch • 9:53
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Why Lumberjacks Never Look Behind Them
The Hidebehind: you never see it—until it’s too late.
Episode: S7 E14 | 9:53
Watch • 9:01
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A Monster Expert's Take on Mascot Horror
Let's look at how mascot horror twists cheerful childhood icons into unsettling threats.
Episode: S7 E13 | 9:01
Watch • 9:07
Monstrum
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Why is Korea’s most famous monster, Dokkaebi, really not scary?
Episode: S7 E12 | 9:07
Watch • 9:11
Monstrum
The Deep Halloween Lore You Probably Don’t Know
Bats have long been symbols of death and darkness. But why?
Episode: S7 E11 | 9:11
Watch • 9:46
Monstrum
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Ever wake up feeling drained? Maybe the Boo Hag's been riding you.
Episode: S7 E10 | 9:46
Watch • 9:01
Monstrum
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The okapi sounds made-up—but it’s very real (and very cute).
Episode: S7 E9 | 9:01
Watch • 10:20
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Episode: S7 E8 | 10:20
Watch • 10:27
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How did Van Helsing go from academic in Dracula to action hero icon?
Episode: S7 E7 | 10:27
Watch • 8:36
Monstrum
Why Does A Ghost Whale Terrorize The Japanese Coast?
Lore of the ghostly whale skeleton, Bake-kujira, reveals an ominous twist of the marine giants.
Episode: S7 E3 | 8:36
Watch • 13:37
Monstrum
The Terrifying Reign of the Beast of Gévaudan
This is the chilling true story of the Beast of Gévaudan.
Episode: S7 E5 | 13:37