Rakasta

[BOZ]

ok, we're converting the rakasta over at the creature catalog boards, and though we've gotten about everything else out of the way, there has been a constant disagreement (or at least some lingering doubt) about what the creature type should be. come on over and help us decide! http://www.enworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=75850

 

[Unseelie]

What the heck is a Rakasta? Some varient spelling for Rakshasa?

 

[BOZ]

Rakasta were a race of humanoid felines from the original D&D world (also known as Mystara). aside from superficial similarities and similar names, there is no connection between Rakasta and Rakshasa.

 

[Umbran]

I say to heck with it. Go with the "Rastashah", a bunch of dreadlock-wearing feline humanoids in a pseudo-arabic style...

 

[BOZ]

heh heh...

 

[Pagan priest]

Are you including the variant rakastas from Dragon 247? In 2nd ed, I had a sherkasta rakasta character that was loads of fun.

 

[Telperion]

The thread name just lured me in here, because it was so weird.
Rakasta = to love, in finnish.

But aside from that, yes I'd like to see more feline races (preferrably Evil) in D&D .

 

[Gez]

Rakshasa and Rakasta are both derived from the same word. An Indian (those with the River Ganges) mythical creature, a sort of evil tiger spirit.

For example, see this.

Or this:

Rakshasa
In Hindu mythology, the Rakshasa are male demons capabale of assuming the form of animals or humans they are completely evil, powerful creatures that delight in spreading fear, confusion, chaos, and destruction among human families and communities, finishing the trouble they cause in a murderous, ghoulish feast upon human flesh. They are among the most feared of all creatures, for they delight in mental torture of their victims.

Rakshasi
In Hindu mythology, a Rakshasi is the female form of a Rakshasa.

Rakasta, however, are not evil.

 

[Katowice]

There's a race in the D&D Miniatures Handbook called "Catfolk" that seems to fit the bill.

 

[BOZ]

variant rakasta? aaiiiee! perhaps later...