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Kavuism
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Kavuism () is an ancient indigenous religion practiced in Kerala which can be traced down to its unique historical past. Kavuism is characterized by its rich mythology and colorful rituals. The origin of Kavuism can be traced back from the ancient Dravidian religion. The religious life in Kavuism is concentrated around Kavus or sacred groves where the deities are believed to be residing. The major deities in Kavuism are Muthappan (ancestor god), Nagathan (Serpant god), various Yakshis (fairy goddesses) and Kuttichathan. There are numerous minor deities also. "There can be no doubt", say Bridget and Raymond Alchin, "that a very large part of this modern folk religion is extremely ancient and contains traits which originated during the earliest periods of Neolithic, Chalcolithic settlement and expression" Etymology The term Kavuism came from Kavu which means a grove or a heath. In early palm-leaf manuscripts of St. Thomas Christians, the term "Kaviar" is used to mean "heathens". History Early references Venitian traveler Marco Polo mentions about a group of people in Malabar called "Govi" whom he describes as "idolaters". Deities Muthappan Muthappan is the ancestor god in Kavuism. The term "Muthappan" literally mean "great grandfather". Nagathan The serpent god is another major deity in Kerala. Most of the Kavus are dedicated for Nagathan or the "Great Serpent". The worship of snakes, a Dravidian custom, is so prevalent in the area that one modern historian notes: "In no part of the world is snake worship more general than in Kerala." Yakshi Yakshis are fairies who are believed to be residing on palm-tops. They are reputed to waylay men with their beauty and drink their blood. One of the most famous legendary stories of Yakshis in Kerala is that of Kalliyankattu Neeli, a powerful demoness. The Yakshi theme is the subject of popular Kerala tales, like the legend of the Yakshi of Trivandrum, as well as of certain movies in modern Malayalam cinema. Some authors hold that the young girl at the foot of the tree is based on an ancient fertility symbol of the Indian Subcontinent. Kuttichathan Rituals Theyyam Theyyam or Theyyattam or Thira is the popular ritual form of worship in Kavuism. The term Theyyam is a corrupt form of Devam or God. Believers consider Theyyam itself as a God and they seek blessings from Theyyams. Thottam songs, which are associated with Theyyam, are a valuable source of folklore tradition. Velichappadu Kuruthi Kuruthi is the sacrifice performed to please Kavu deities. Vela Kavuism and Hinduism There has been a considerable cultural interchange between Kavuism and Hinduism. See Also
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