The Legend of Vettakkoru Makan: A Son Born from a Hunt
In the mystical realms of Hindu mythology, a tale unfolds; a tale of Vettakkoru Makan, a deity revered in the lands of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, particularly in the northern reaches. His very name, "Vettakkorumakan," translates to 'a son from a hunt.'
Legends whisper that he is the offspring of Shiva and Parvati, and his divinity is intertwined with the art of hunting in these two sacred states. Once known as "Vettakkarumakan," which meant 'Son of hunters,' time has gently shaped its pronunciation into "Vettakkorumakan" (A son for a hunt). The ancient narrative reveals that he was brought into being by Shiva and Parvati, assuming the guises of hunters, during their delivery of the Pasupata weapon to Arjuna.
Vettakkorumakan holds a place of prominence in the Malabar region of North Kerala and graces the stage in traditional Theyyam dance performances. His sacred presence is felt in numerous temples, nestled both in the lush lands of Malabar and Tamil Nadu. Some esteemed royal families even acknowledge him as their family deity.
In the eons when Lord Shiva took on the guise of a Kirata; a forest-dwelling hunter, to bestow the Pasupata weapon upon Arjuna, Parvati, ever the devoted consort, joined him as a huntress. In these earthly avatars, they sojourned within the forests. It was during this period of their life that Vettakkorumakan came into existence; a mischievous lad who revealed in the hunt, vanquishing asuras and, at times, vexing the Devas and revered sages. The celestial beings turned to Brahma for guidance, but he, bound by divine ties to Shiva, found himself powerless to intervene.