Uchitta Bhagavathy
ഉച്ചിട്ട
A beloved goddess whom women pray to for safe childbirth.
- Category
- Goddess
- Also known as
- Adiyeri Madathil Uchitta Bhagavathy
- People pray for
- Safe delivery, family wellbeing
- Kept by
- The Malaya and Velar communities
Who is Uchitta Bhagavathy?
Uchitta is a regional goddess of Kannur and Kasaragod who is much loved by women, who pray to her for a safe delivery. Her name is said to come from her loud voice, “uchathil” in Malayalam.
The story
There are several stories. In one she is the goddess whom the tyrant Kamsa tried to kill in place of Krishna, who then called out that his killer had already been born. In another she is the daughter of Agni, the god of fire, born from an ember that fell on Brahma’s lotus, and she came to earth at the request of the goddess Bhumi. Some say she is another form of Parvati, others say she is a daughter of Shiva.
Hero photo: Kuttappan Chettan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What you will see
Uchitta appears in red attire with an orange-red painted face and a skirt of palm-leaf strips, with a decorated crown. The ritual is playful and personal, and the goddess takes time to speak with devotees.
In the tradition
Because she is said to be Agni’s daughter, her ritual includes moments of closeness to embers. She also appears as part of larger Theyyam festivals in many temples.
Uchitta is approached with warmth. Expect families, especially mothers and expecting mothers, to come forward for her blessing. Photography and video are not allowed at some rituals, so ask your guide first.
Quick answers
Who is Uchitta Bhagavathy in Theyyam?
Uchitta is a regional goddess of Kannur and Kasaragod who is much loved by women, who pray to her for a safe delivery. Her name is said to come from her loud voice, “uchathil” in Malayalam.
What does Uchitta Bhagavathy Theyyam look like?
Uchitta appears in red attire with an orange-red painted face and a skirt of palm-leaf strips, with a decorated crown. The ritual is playful and personal, and the goddess takes time to speak with devotees.
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 tripSources and further reading: Uchitta Bhagavathy (Wikipedia). Stories vary by shrine, family and teller; this is a general summary, not a definitive version.
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