“V ishnumaya is a goddess who is primarily worshiped in the southern Indian state of Kerala. She is considered a deity of prosperity, wealth, and protection, and her worship has deep roots in the culture and traditions of the people of Kerala. Despite her popularity, the origin of Vishnumaya remains a subject of debate, and there are various stories and legends associated with her. Some view her as an independent goddess, while others see her as a manifestation of the goddess Kali or the god Vishnu. Regardless of her origins, Vishnumaya holds an important place in the religious and cultural life of Kerala.

Vishnumaya's Role in Hindu Mythology

Shiva was out hunting when he heard a lovely voice emanating from a bush. He was surprised to find that it belonged to Kulivaka, a stunning young tribal girl. The isolation of the Kuli van forest and the girl's wild beauty aroused Shiva's amorous desires. When he informed Kulivaka of his wishes and instructed her to wait for him, she became conflicted. As a follower of Parvati, she knew that mating with Shiva would incur the goddess's wrath. However, she also feared Shiva's anger if she rejected him. Kulivaka prayed to her goddess, seeking deliverance from the situation. Parvati appeared before her, revealing her true identity. Kulivaka was actually Manaswini, a servant in Parvati's retinue in a past life.

One day, she had breastfed Ganesha when he was a baby. Parvati had been upset that a servant from an outcaste chandala family was feeding her child, but later regretted her anger towards Manaswini. Despite her chandala background, Devi Parvati blessed Manaswini with the opportunity to breastfeed Shiva's son. Devi Parvati revealed to Manaswini that her meeting with Lord Shiva and his attraction to her was predetermined by fate. She assured Manaswini that she would impersonate her and deceive Shiva. Parvati also disclosed that their union would result in the birth of a powerful child who would become the slayer of the mighty Asura Jalandhara. After sharing this knowledge with Manaswini, Parvati sent her away, providing her with the guidance to follow the path of fate.

The fake Kulivaka waited for Lord Shiva on a vine tied to a jackfruit tree, and during their union, a child of extraordinary power was conceived. To ensure the safety of the child, Shiva arranged for a buffalo to be its protector. Kulivaka was entrusted with the care of the celestial child, who later became known as Chathan, the son of Lord Shiva. Kulivaka raised Chathan for almost seven years, and they lived together in their home. Chathan was loved by the tribe for his repeated acts of bravery in protecting them from harm. He would travel around on his buffalo, playing a musical instrument known as the "Ezhara." On Chathan's seventh birthday, the tribe organized a grand feast in his honor.

During the celebration, the sage Narada made an appearance and revealed a secret to Chathan about his birth. Narada also advised Chathan to make a journey to Kailasa to meet his true parents. Furthermore, Narada disclosed the true purpose of Chathan's birth. With the blessings of his foster mother and companions, Chathan embarked on a journey to Kailasam, riding on his buffalo. However, he soon realized that Nandikeshwara would not permit him to enter Kailash in his current form. To overcome this obstacle, Chathan assumed the appearance of Lord Vishnu. Upon his arrival at Kailasam, Shiva and Parvati were overjoyed to see their son and embraced him warmly. Lord Shiva praised Chathan and bestowed upon him the name Vishnu Maya, as he had taken on the form of Vishnu's illusion.

Shiva also instructed him in the art of fighting and how to defeat Jalandhara, an Asura who had been tormenting the Devas. After receiving a boon from Indra, an asura named Jalandhara was wreaking havoc in Heaven, Pathala (Nether World), and Earth. Chathan confronted him in a fierce battle, and eventually used his Maya to transform into Sudarsana Chakra and behead Jalandhara. Jalandhara tried to hide in the water to escape, but Chathan followed him and his Chakra's heat caused the water to boil, forcing Jalandhara to come out and meet his demise. Following Jalandhara's defeat, the Devas became aware of Chathan's incredible power.

Indra even extended an invitation for Chathan to come to Heaven, but he declined, choosing instead to return to his homeland where he could continue protecting and serving the underprivileged. In the wilderness, Koolivaka was pursued by Briga, a powerful Asura who desired her hand in marriage. He attempted to abduct her with a large army at his disposal. However, Chathan, aided by his loyal companion Karimkutty, fought back against the attack. Chathan was wounded in the process, and from the blood spilled on the ground, 400 Kuttichathans were created. Briga, sensing his impending defeat, unleashed ten Brahmastras against Chathan, but 10 Kuttichathans gallantly sacrificed their lives by swallowing the weapons.

The remaining 390 Kuttichathans destroyed the army, and Chathan ultimately killed Briga with his Kuruvadi (short stick). Lord Vishnumaya, also known as Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan, is widely revered for being the most forgiving of all deities and for fulfilling the desires of his devotees. One of the primary reasons people pray to Vishnumaya is to attain a healthier lifestyle. By seeking refuge under the Lord's guidance, devotees are ensured of being free from all diseases and living healthier, more fulfilling lives. Vishnumaya also bestows greater fortune upon his followers, who seek a higher quality of life and prosperity for themselves and their families. Through prayers to Kuttichathan, all problems are resolved, and one can lead a better, more fulfilling life.

Avanangattu Kalari, Thrissur: This temple is situated in the village of Avanangattu and is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya. The temple is known for its unique rituals and practices that are carried out by the priests, who are believed to be possessed by the deity during the ceremonies.

Chunanghi Bhagavathy: This temple, located in the village of Chunanghi, is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya and Bhagavathy. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala and is believed to have been built over 1000 years ago. The temple is known for its annual festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Kanadi Kuttichathan Kavu, Thrissur: This temple, situated in the village of Kanadi, is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan. The temple is known for its unique rituals and practices, which include the use of black magic to appease the deity.

Karanayil Madom, Thrissur: This temple is located in the village of Karanayil and is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan. The temple is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of traditional Kerala and Dravidian styles.

Karinkutty Temple, Thrissur: This temple, situated in the village of Karinkutty, is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan. The temple is known for its annual festival, which is celebrated with great fervour by the devotees.

Peringottukara Devasthanam Sree Vishnumaya Bhuvaneswary Devi Temple: This temple, located in the village of Peringottukara, is dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya and Bhuvaneswary Devi. The temple is known for its unique rituals and practices, which include the use of tantric practices to appease the deities. The temple is also famous for its annual festival, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over Kerala.

The legend of Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan is a fascinating story that has captured the imagination of devotees for generations. The story of Chathan and his heroic deeds has become an integral part of the mythology of Kerala. The tale highlights the importance of courage, devotion, and sacrifice, and it serves as a reminder to all of us to never give up in the face of adversity. Today, there are several temples dedicated to Sree Vishnumaya Kuttichathan across Kerala, where devotees come to pray for better health, wealth, and prosperity. The popularity of these temples continues to grow, and they remain an important part of Kerala's cultural heritage.