Legends from Kerala
Kerala also known as God’s Own Country is resplendent with many legends of people and here I am describing them.
Parasurama
It was God Parasurama who threw an axe into the sea and birthed Kerala.
Mahabali
Mahabali was a mythical king of Kerala and he was much loved by the people. God Vamana grew jealous and visited him as a dwarf and asked him for three boons. Mahabali complied readily and the first boon was the Heaven and Vamana put his step and the second boon was he earth and then when he asked the third boon Mahabali out of servitude granted his body to be stepped on with one condition that he will visit his people every year once. And it was this legend that gave birth to Onam a festival of Kerala. Onam is a festival with snake boat races, floral designs and lamps are lit in the night to welcome Mahabali.
Kuttichathan
Kuttichathan is a malevolent child demon who is worshipped as a God and offerings are made to appease him to get wishes satisfied.
Kayankulam Kochunni
Kayankulam Kochunni is thief of Kerala who has got the character of Robin Hood. There are many legends about him which are enthralling.
Perunthachan
Perunthachan is an acclaimed as a master architect just like Icarus and he became upset with the rising popularity of his son and killed him.
Kadamatathu Kattanar
Kdamatathu Kattanar (priest) is famous in legend for driving out demons and healing people. He is a shaman as well as a priest.
Yakshi
Yakshi is a female demon and in many temples there are chains to show that Yakshi is bound. In ancient times, she used to waylay helpless people and like Dracula drink blood.