Kadangot Makkam

കടങ്കോട്ട് മാക്കം

A wronged sister and her children, who became deities after their death.

Category: Heroic woman and deity
Also known as: Makkappothi, Makkavum Makkalum
Worshipped with: Her two children and a companion
People pray for: Children, justice and family wellbeing

Who is Kadangot Makkam?

Kadangot Makkam is a woman of the North Malabar region who is worshipped as a goddess after being wronged. Her Theyyam is also called Makkappothi, or “Makkam and her children”.

The story

Makkam was the only sister of twelve warrior brothers and was loved by all. While the brothers were away at war, their wives, who disliked her, spread a false story about her. The brothers believed it and decided to kill her. On a journey with her two children, Makkam stopped to drink at a well. There her brothers killed her and the children and threw them into the well. A passer-by who had witnessed it was killed as well.

Later, she took the form of a fierce deity, and the family home was destroyed by fire. The local people became convinced of her innocence and began to worship her, her children and the man who died with them.

Close view of the Kadangot Makkam Theyyam face and headdress — Photo: Sreejithmachery, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hero photo: Abhiram RP, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What you will see

Makkam appears together with her children and the man who died with her, each in their own attire.

In the tradition

Families who wish for children sometimes sponsor a Makkam Theyyam. She also appears at the annual festivals of her shrines.

A note for visitors

This is a story of grief as well as justice. A quiet and respectful manner is especially important. Photography and video are not allowed at some rituals, so ask your guide first.

Quick answers

Who is Kadangot Makkam in Theyyam?

Kadangot Makkam is a woman of the North Malabar region who is worshipped as a goddess after being wronged. Her Theyyam is also called Makkappothi, or “Makkam and her children”.

What does Kadangot Makkam Theyyam look like?

Makkam appears together with her children and the man who died with her, each in their own attire.

Learn about the Theyyams with a local guide

Our guided trips explain each deity’s story as you see it, and are planned with you on enquiry. We never publish ritual dates or venues, and confirm the right nights with you closer to travel.

Enquire about a trip

Sources and further reading: Kadangot Makkam (Wikipedia). Stories vary by shrine, family and teller; this is a general summary, not a definitive version.