Why did the Mari honor the Old Man of Nemda Mountain with annual sacrifices?

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The Mari (also known as the Cheremis) honor the "Old Man of the Nemda Mountain"—a legendary ancient warrior and prince—with an annual sacrifice of a foal due to a myth regarding a betrayal of his trust.1

According to the tradition, this leader promised to return to his people if they were ever threatened by war. At one point, the people called upon him unnecessarily. Upon discovering this deception, the Old Man felt betrayed and subsequently commanded that an annual propitiatory sacrifice of a foal be performed in his honor.1