Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast · Shane L. Waters, Wendy Cee, Gemma Hoskins

India: Thug Behram and the Thuggee Stranglers

October 30, 2025·14 min·1 clip

Thug Baram's signal, 'bring tobacco,' triggered an instant attack with the sacred rumel, a silk handkerchief turned deadly weapon.

This episode explores the history of the Thuggee cult in 19th century India, focusing on its most infamous leader, Thug Behram, who is considered the world's most prolific serial killer. It details their ritualistic strangulation methods, the British investigation led by William Sleeman, and the case's lasting impact on criminal justice.

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