Engineering Vengeful Effervescence: Lynching Rituals and Religious–Political Power in Pakistan

Abstract Based on case studies of seven (attempted) lynchings in Pakistan, we argue that they can be considered lynching rituals, which are instrumental a context political strife. ‘Shrpsnd anasr’ (agitators) play an important role as ritual engineers; assemble crowds by spreading rumours and vocalizing accusations, use rhythmic chanting slogan repetition to generate shared vengeful mood focus the crowd’s attention (fabricated) encroachment moral imperative (notably blasphemy). We conclude effervescence generated rituals strengthens clientelistic interdependency networks religious–political leaders. The contribution our study lies demonstrating importance bodily practices their value for both masses