Malayaratt | Uchitta Bhagavathy | The Theyyams of Malabar

Uchitta Bhagavathi: The Divine Fire-Born Goddess
Uchitta is one of the most significant deities among the Mantramoorthy’s. She is envisioned as an exceptionally beautiful goddess.

The Legend of Her Origin
According to legend, a glowing ember broke away from the divine brilliance of Lord Agni and fell upon the lotus seat of Lord Brahma. From that ember, a goddess of radiant beauty was born. Lord Brahma, through Kamadeva, offered her to Lord Mahadeva. Later, at the humble request of Bhoomi Devi , the Goddess descended to earth in a human form to protect the righteous and dwell among mankind.

Unique Characteristics in Theyyam

Unlike many other deities, the Uchitta Theyyam is performed with a deeply human touch. The deity speaks in a feminine voice and uses colloquial language.

Protector of Families: Uchitta Amma is considered the guardian of women and children. In local dialects, she is often referred to as "Vadhakkinakathu Achchi". She is specifically worshipped for the protection of pregnancy and the well-being of the unborn.

The Playful Fire-Daughter: Being the daughter of Agni, the performance of this Theyyam is spectacular. She exhibits a playful nature, sitting and reclining on burning embers and tossing glowing coals around with ease.

An Alternative Narrative

There is also a secondary belief that Uchitta is an incarnation of Yogamaya, the divine sister of Lord Krishna (the child who vanished from Kansa’s grasp).

Soundscape & Music : Rakesh Pazhedam
Camera : Latheesh Panicker , Syam Ezhuthachan, Vinesh Radhakrishnan, Nidhin B K , E M RAjeev
Helicam : Sajith Moothakurambu
Narration : Sajith Moothakurambu