Maenads
Avid watchers of HBO's "True Blood" know that the Maenads were the rabid female followers of Bacchus (also called Dionysus).
Maenads... carried a thrysus in pictures (looks like a staff with a pine cone on top!)
Sileni, Satyrs and Nymphs/ Maenads.
It is a thyrsos.
In some ways, followers of Dionysus put on plays of comic and tragedy in dramatic nature.
In Greek mythology, satyrs are typically depicted as male woodland deities with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a goat. However, there are versions of satyrs called maenads, which are female followers of the god Dionysus who exhibit similar wild and frenzied behavior in myths.
Dionysus was angry with Orpheus because, during his descent to the Underworld to retrieve his wife Eurydice, Orpheus failed to honor Dionysus and his rites. Instead of celebrating Dionysian festivities, Orpheus focused solely on his love for Eurydice, disregarding the god's influence and importance. In retaliation, Dionysus caused the Maenads, his female followers, to attack Orpheus, culminating in his tragic death. This punishment reflects Dionysus's demand for recognition and reverence in the face of human passion.
The nymphs that cared for Dionysus are known as the Maenads or Bacchae, who are female followers of the god associated with wine, fertility, and ecstasy. According to mythology, they nurtured him during his childhood, providing protection and guidance. Additionally, some accounts mention the Nysian nymphs, who resided on Mount Nysa, where Dionysus was raised. These nymphs played a crucial role in his development and the promotion of his cult.
The lover of Dionysus (Baachus) is Ariadne.
The followers of the Greek goddess Dionysus, known as Bacchae or Maenads, were known for their love of music and dance. They would engage in energetic and ecstatic celebrations in honor of Dionysus, often accompanied by music, singing, and dancing.
The followers of Hinduism are called Hindus
thyrsus A Thyrsus