Myths and Beliefs

Maveli Manram

The gods who cheated Mavelimanava Theyyam and stole the soil created human forms from that soil, but they did not have life. The gods brought the monstrous Mali to frighten. them. The 'Adiya' tribal people are the ones who screamed 'Athava' and got scared on seeing that fierce figure.

Origin of Paniyars

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The Paniyars have several legends and folklore surrounding their origin. According to their beliefs, they trace their roots to Ippimala, a hilltop located in Northern Wayanad. It is said that their ancestors dwelled within the caves and emerged only during the night time.

Kurichyar:
Stories of Names

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The name "Kurichiyar" holds a dual significance. It signifies both their habitat in the hilly region, referred to as the "kurinji land," and their exceptional proficiency in archery, stemming from the phrase 'kuri vechavan,' meaning 'the one who took aim."

Story of Malakkari Devan

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Malakkari is the chief deity of the Kurichyar community, who lived in mountainous regions.The name "Malakkari" signifies its connection to the mountains. According to their beliefs, Malakkari is the offspring of Parvathi and Parameshwara, born in the forest. Parameshwara then designated him as the deity for the people residing in the mountains.

Genesis of Kadar

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The Paniyars have several legends and folklore surrounding their origin. According to their beliefs, they trace their roots to Ippimala, a hilltop located in Northern Wayanad. It is said that their ancestors dwelled within the caves and emerged only during the night time.Ganesha was born to Shiva and Parvathi in a concealed form while they were on Earth.

Edakkal Rock Art & Mullukurumar

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The Edakkal Caves in Kerala hold some of the earliest of rock carving art and also provide evidence of an earlier dynasty in the region. These carvings are thought to have been created by the ancestors of the Mullukurumar people.

Karinthandan, The Tribal Leader

Karinthandan, believed to be a chieftain among the Paniyar tribes, became involved when British explorers sought a new route through the dense Wayanad forest, connecting Kozhikode to Wayanad. The Viceroy had previously offered a reward to those who could construct a road across the challenging terrain known as the "churam."

In a bid to gain the promised reward, fame, and wrongfully take credit for discovering the Wayanad route, a British engineer devised a sinister plan to kill Karinthandan. He lured Karinthandan to a high peak area and tragically shot him dead.

The legend has it that the restless spirit of Karinthandan, who met an unjust end, troubled those who passed by. Eventually, the locals bound the ghost to a tree at Lakidi using an iron chain.

Every year, beneath this tree, tribal communities perform rituals in honor of Karinthandan.