Kunjar Kurathi Amma

കുഞ്ഞാർ കുറത്തി

According to tradition, Kunjar Kurathi is regarded as the daughter of Goddess Parvati, raised on Mount Kailasa. As she came of age, she appr… Learn the full story, rituals, and temples on Theyyakkalam.

Communities: Velar

Deity type: Goddess

Origin & Sacred Story

According to tradition, Kunjar Kurathi is regarded as the daughter of Goddess Parvati, raised on Mount Kailasa. As she came of age, she approached Surya Deva, the Sun God, seeking a boon. Surya declared that he would grant her wish only if she could defeat him in a game of dice and chess. Kunjar Kurathi emerged victorious, and Surya rewarded her with divine ornaments, weapons, and blessings.

She then journeyed through various realms, eventually arriving at the palace of the Adiyeri Vanavar. There she unleashed destruction, laying waste to the palace and killing its cattle. When the cause of the devastation was discovered, the Vanavar appeased her with offerings of milk and water, after which she accepted worship.

Continuing her journey, she reached Keezhattoor, where she first established herself in the ancestral house of the Vannar Vaidyars. From there she consecrated several other sacred sites.

Later, Kunjar Kurathi arrived at the Maniyara Tharavad in Pattena, Nileshwaram. The family elder entrusted her with guarding their betel vine plantation. Unaware of this, his younger sister Unnanga plucked betel leaves and, while returning home, died. She was thereafter transformed into a Daivakkaruva (a deified spirit).

From these principal centres, Kunjar Kurathi is believed to have spread her presence to many other shrines across the region, where she continues to be worshipped today.

Performance & Rituals

The Theyyam is traditionally performed by members of the Velan community and is known for its distinctive appearance. The costume consists of a Vattamudi (circular headgear) and Arayoda (waist ornament), while the facial decoration uses Theppu and Kuri designs. In some places, the Theyyam is performed without the Vattamudi.

Cultural Significance

Members of the Nalkathaya community also perform a Kurathi Theyyam under the same name, although its appearance and ritual form differ from this tradition.

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