Pula Chamundi theyyam is a rare theyyam performed in a couple of temples in Kannur and Kasaragod region of Kerala. As per information, the theyyam is a fierce manifestation of Kali or Goddess Durga Bhagavathy. The story of Pula Chamundi theyyam is that of her appearing from a homa or yajna kunda (sacrificial fire) conducted by Shiva to help Goddess Kali. She later appears before the head of a prominent tharavad of the region. She protects the family from ill health and demons. She appears to protect livestock which are attacked by supernatural beings. To keep her calm and not to cause destruction she was given an aaroodam or worship place. A theyyam is performed annually keep her content and happy and to seek her blessings.
A major highlight of theyyam is the appearance as her dress is made from tender coconut leaves. This is a ferocious theyyam and does several movements and facial expressions that might invoke fear in those witnessing.
Pula Chamundi fulfills the desires of devotees. She is also
propitiated to defeat enemies and to get over evil eye and black magic. It is
believed that she blesses devotees with good health by keeping away contagious
diseases.
Pula Chamundi theyyam is performed annually at Bedakam Aricheppu Kalathil Vishnumurthy Devasthanam temple in Kasaragod, Kasaragod Cheruvatur Achaamthuruthi Sree Palichon Devasthanam temple, Mekunnu Sree Poovallathil temple and Kannur Thalasseri Kadirur Meethile Vengeri Pottan Kavu temple.