Vachakkara Bhagavathy

വാച്ചാക്കര ഭഗവതി

Vachakkara Bhagavathy is believed to be none other than Chandranellur Bhagavathy herself. The legend says that the goddess began a journey … Learn the full story, rituals, and temples on Theyyakkalam.

Communities: Vannan

Deity type: Goddess

Origin & Sacred Story

Vachakkara Bhagavathy is believed to be none other than Chandranellur Bhagavathy herself.

The legend says that the goddess began a journey westward from Chandranellur and eventually arrived at a place called Vayakkara. After establishing her presence there, she came to be known as Vayakkara Bhagavathy. From there, she continued her journey northward, crossing forests and wilderness. During her travels, the flowers she encountered in the forests captivated her. She adorned her sacred headgear with flowers of many colors and forms gathered from the wild.

Continuing her journey, the goddess reached Kodakkad, also known in tradition as Chathraranyam. There she encountered Shoolappil Bhagavathy, the guardian deity of the region. Enchanted by the lush greenery and beauty of Kodakkad, the goddess desired a place of her own in the village. She eventually established herself in the prominent Kundakkudiyan Tharavad, where she continues to be worshipped to this day.

Over time, the name Vayakkara Bhagavathy evolved in local usage into Vachakkara Bhagavathy, the name by which she is now popularly known.

Performance & Rituals

One of the most distinctive features of this Theyyam is its headgear, which is decorated with flowers of various colors. These flowers symbolize the wild forest blossoms that the goddess wore during her journey. The deity's appearance includes a Vattamudi (circular headgear), Arayoda (waist ornament), and Kuthu Pantham (ritual torch).

The dance style of Vachakkara Bhagavathy is characterized by a gentle and measured Mayil Nadanam (peacock-like movement). The rituals and ceremonial performances are similar to those of Ankakkulangara Bhagavathy, although the Thottam (ritual song) and Munpasthanam (preliminary ritual sequence) are different.

The facial makeup employs the designs known as Kutti Shankhu and Vairidalam.

Cultural Significance

The Kaliyattam festival for Vachakkara Bhagavathy is traditionally held once every two years. The hereditary right to perform this Theyyam belongs to the Manakkadan lineage.

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