Vishnumaya, popularly known as ‘Chathan,’ is a revered Hindu god renowned for his mystical abilities. This divine figure holds significant prominence in South India, particularly in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. According to the mythology surrounding Vishnumaya, he is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and Kulivaka, a tribal incarnation of Shree Parvathi (as per certain versions of the myth).
The captivating tale of Vishnumaya, or Chathan, unfolds with Lord Shiva encountering the beautiful tribal woman named Kulivaka during a hunting expedition. Long periods of solitude coupled with Kulivaka’s irresistible allure ignited desire within the lord. After expressing his intentions to Kulivaka, Lord Shiva proceeded to bathe, during which Kulivaka comprehended the gravity of the situation.
As a devout follower of Shree Parvathi, Kulivaka realized that yielding to Lord Shiva’s advances would incur the wrath of Devi Parvathi, while rejecting him could invoke the anger of Lord Shiva. Caught in this dilemma, she chose to seek solace and guidance from Devi Parvathi herself, praying fervently for a resolution. Impressed by Kulivaka’s innocence and virtuous heart, Devi Parvathi appeared before her, unveiling the reasons behind her destined union with Lord Shiva.
In a past life, Kulivaka had served in the retinue of Parvathi as Manaswini, even nursing Lord Ganesha, Devi Parvathi’s son. However, Parvathi disapproved of a servant nursing her child and cursed Manaswini to be born into a Chandala (outcaste) family in her next life. Over time, Parvathi’s anger subsided, and she took pity on Manaswini. Thus, Devi Parvathi blessed Manaswini with the opportunity to breastfeed Lord Shiva’s son, even in her Chandala incarnation. Parvathi revealed to Kulivaka that it was their predestined fate for Shiva to encounter her. She declared that she herself would assume the form of Kulivaka to deceive Lord Shiva, and the child born from their union would be the slayer of the Asura lord, Jalandhara.
The union between the disguised Kulivaka and Lord Shiva resulted in the birth of a child possessing divine powers. Lord Shiva arranged for a buffalo to protect this extraordinary child. Koolivaka, as the chosen mother, was entrusted with the care of the child, named Chathan, fulfilling Parvathi’s boon. Chathan lived with Koolivaka for approximately seven years, endearing himself to the tribal community by safeguarding them from various perils. He wandered through the jungle, riding his buffalo companion, while playing a musical instrument known as the “Ezhara.”
On Chathan’s seventh birthday, the tribals held a grand feast in his honor. During the celebration, the sage Narada manifested himself and revealed the secret of Chathan’s birth. Narada also advised Chathan to visit his true parents in Kailasa, unveiling the profound purpose behind his incarnation.
Vishnumaya's Journey to Kailasam: Triumph, Blessings, and Divine Battles
Chathan embarked on a momentous expedition to Kailasam, accompanied by the consent of his foster mother and supportive friends. Mounted on his loyal buffalo, he embarked on the arduous journey towards Kailasam. However, as he approached his destination, a realization struck him—Nandikeshwara, the guardian of Kailash, would not permit his entry in his current form. To overcome this obstacle, Chathan assumed the formidable form of Lord Vishnu.
Upon setting eyes on their beloved son, Shiva and Parvati rejoiced, enveloping him in warm embraces. Lord Shiva, acknowledging Chathan’s remarkable invocation of the Vishnu form through magical Maya, blessed him with the name “Vishnu Maya.” He also imparted upon him the art of warfare and the secrets to vanquish Jalandhara, a menacing asura who had been tormenting the Devas.
Engaging in a fierce battle, Chathan confronted Jalandhara, ultimately severing the asura’s head and bringing an end to his tyrannical reign. Witnessing the immense power wielded by Chathan, the Devas recognized his might and extended an invitation for him to ascend to the heavens. However, humbly declining this offer, Chathan affirmed his dedication to the underprivileged and chose to return to his people.
Subsequently, a powerful asura named Briga sought to marry Koolivaka, amassing a formidable force to attack and capture her. Chathan found himself embroiled in this conflict, sustaining injuries that caused his blood to be spilled upon the ground. Miraculously, from this spilled blood, 400 Kuttichathans emerged, smaller manifestations of Chathan’s divine essence. Among them, 10 courageous Kuttichathans sacrificed their lives to shield Chathan by consuming the deadly Brahmastras hurled by the enemy, leaving behind 390 Kuttichathans. Armed with his “kuruvadi,” Chathan defeated Briga, restoring peace and harmony.
Vishnumaya, also known as Chathan, is revered as the epitome of a powerful magical deity, capable of granting the heartfelt desires of his devoted followers. As the principal deity among the people of Central Kerala, Lord Vishnumaya holds immense significance in their religious beliefs and practices.
