Chooliyar Bhagavathy Theyyam
As per the lore, Chooliyar Bhagavathy emerged from the third eye of Shiva with the specific mission to protect the granaries of the local devotees. She materialised to vanquish Karthaveeryasuran, who had malevolent intentions to burn down these vital food stores at Thirikanniyalappan.
An alternative narrative credits her origins to Mookambika, arriving in the region alongside a devoted follower. Struck by the beauty of the land, she chose to remain, manifesting herself as a Shila or swayambhu rock at the very spot where her devout worshipper meditated. In another telling moment, she asserted her divine right to a place in the Thrikanneshwaram temple, prompting Paramashiva to aim a flower arrow to designate her spot within the sanctuary.
Serving as the guardian of an impressive 96 villages from Pattuvam to Padamboor, Chooliyar Bhagavathy wields a flaming torch as her symbol of power. She’s considered a manifestation of Adi Parashakti and is revered for her ability to confer blessings of peace, prosperity, and good health on her devotees.
Notably, her protective influence extends to the realm of health, where it’s believed she can cure ailments and halt the spread of contagious diseases. Her role is not just as a healer but also as a warrior, prepared to defend her followers against any threats.