Vishnu Moorthy/Thee Chamundi
Vishnumurthy Theyyam celebrates the triumph of righteousness over evil, reenacting Vishnu's divine intervention to vanquish the demon Hiranyakashipu.
Vishnumurthy Theyyam is an intricate tapestry of moral valor and divine intervention, commemorating Vishnu's victory over Hiranyakashipu, a tyrant shielded from death. The legend unfolds during Hiranyakashipu's rule, when Prahlada, his son and ardent Vishnu devotee, refuses to renounce his faith. This divine confrontation leads to the emergence of Narasimha Murthy, the half-man, half-lion avatar, who vanquishes the demon at twilight, circumventing the boon's restrictions. This sacred performance takes place in the presence of villagers and pilgrims, reenacting Vishnu's divine intervention and teaching timeless moral lessons. The alternate story of Palanthai Kannan adds depth to this tale, highlighting his transformation into a celestial being and the establishment of the Vishnumurthy temple. The Theyyam rituals associated with these deities showcase the region's rich cultural heritage and the enduring power of these legends.