Pulikandan

പുലികണ്ടൻ

Shiva in tiger form, father of the tiger deities.

Category: God (tiger deity)
Form of: Shiva, as a tiger
Partner: Pulikarinkali
Children: Puliyoor Kali and others

Who is Pulikandan?

Pulikandan is the tiger form of Shiva in the story of the Puli Daivam. He is described as a rare Theyyam. A popular source also lists Kandapuli as one of his sons. Sources do not agree on this, and we found no scholarly source.

The story

In the story, Shiva and Parvati, passing through a forest, saw tigers, and took on the forms of the tiger Pulikandan and the tigress Pulikarinkali. Their children became the tiger deities.

Close view of the Pulikandan Theyyam face and headdress — Photo: Vaikoovery, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Pulikandan Theyyam during a ritual in North Malabar, Kerala — Photo: Vaikoovery, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hero photo: Vaikoovery, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What you will see

In photographs, Pulikandan and Pulikarinkali appear in pairs, in red attire with tall red headdresses and white beards.

In the tradition

He appears with Pulikarinkali, and in some shrines with their daughter.

A note for visitors

These rituals are quick and close. Keep behind the boundary. Photography and video are not allowed at some rituals, so ask your guide first.

Quick answers

Who is Pulikandan in Theyyam?

What does Pulikandan Theyyam look like?

In photographs, Pulikandan and Pulikarinkali appear in pairs, in red attire with tall red headdresses and white beards.

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: Hindu Blog: Kandapuli / Pulikandan Theyyam, Kerala Tourism: Various types of Theyyam. Stories vary by shrine, family and teller; this is a general summary, not a definitive version.