In the land of Kerala, there lived a legendary woman named Unniyarcha, known for her extraordinary martial prowess, courage, and captivating beauty. Unniyarcha was wed to Attumanammel Kunjiraman, a man of timid disposition. However, her story is one of indomitable spirit and unwavering determination.

Unniyarcha and her brother, Aromal Chekavar, were renowned for their mastery of the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. Together, they operated the Puthussery Kalari, which still stands proudly in the Kannur district of Kerala. In her youth, Unniyarcha achieved legendary status by triumphing in 64 kalari ankam competitions.

A pivotal moment in Unniyarcha's life was the tragic rejection of Chandu Chekavar's amorous advances. This refusal ultimately led to the murder of her beloved brother, Aromal. As Aromal lay slain, Unniyarcha vowed to avenge her brother's death, dedicating her life to this solemn promise. She nurtured her son, Aromalunni, with the sole purpose of seeking vengeance against Chanthu Chekavar. Remarkably, at the tender age of 13, Aromalunni succeeded in avenging his uncle's death, fulfilling his mother's pledge.

Unniyarcha remains an enduring symbol of valor and determination, especially among practitioners of Kalaripayattu in Kerala.

Unniyarcha's adventurous spirit extended beyond the realms of martial prowess. In an act of defiance, shortly after her marriage to Kunhiraman, she embarked on a journey to witness the Kuthu (a form of ritualistic performance art) in Allimalarkavu, the Vilakku in Ayyappankavu, and the Velapuram in Anjanakavu. Along her path lay the dreaded Mappilas (Jonakas) of the bazar, whose presence invoked fear in the hearts of her husband and relatives. Undeterred by their concerns, Unniyarcha remained steadfast in her determination to attend these festivals. Reluctantly, her husband Kunhiraman accompanied her.

As they journeyed, the Mappilas ambushed them at Nadapuram. Though Kunhiraman was gripped by fear, Unniyarcha stood her ground, bravely confronting her adversaries almost single-handedly. She displayed unparalleled courage and chided her husband for his anxious demeanor.

The Mappilas, however, underestimated Unniyarcha's resolve. One of their leaders, smitten by her beauty, attempted to abduct her. In response, Unniyarcha drew her sword and fought valiantly, slaying some of her assailants while others fled. The headman of the Mappilas was brought to the scene, recognizing her as the sister of their fencing master, Aromal Chekavar. He sought forgiveness, but Unniyarcha demanded a guarantee of safety for women traveling that route.

Even the intervention of influential figures failed to sway her. It was only when Aromal Chekavar himself arrived that peace was brokered. The headman apologized profusely, offering gifts and assurances that women would not be molested along that path in the future. Unniyarcha, with her blade sheathed, finally relented, securing a promise that no harm would befall women in the region.

Unniyarcha's name echoes through the ages in Kerala, a symbol of strength and valor. Even today, when women exhibit courage and resilience, people exclaim, "She is an Unniyarcha." Her enduring legacy continues to inspire, especially in the Malabar region of Kerala.