Kadutha Swami: The Brave Warriors of Sabarimala

At Sabarimala, there are two shrines dedicated to Valiya Kadutha Swami (elder Kadutha Swami) and Kochu Kadutha Swami (younger Kadutha Swami). It is believed that both of them were commanders in Lord Ayyappa's army.

The legend goes like this: Valiya Kadutha was a great warrior and chief of the Pandalam kingdom's army. He was joined by Kochu Kadutha, a brave warrior from the Inchipara Kalari (a traditional martial art training centre). Kochu Kadutha joined Lord Ayyappa's forces after excelling in a training competition for the Pandalam army under the leadership of Valiya Kadutha. Together, they fought valiantly for Lord Ayyappa, playing crucial roles in the destruction of Udayan's Inchipara fort.

Kochu Kadutha's bravery was especially notable during the Karimala battle, where he played a major role despite losing both his legs. Even after the war, when Lord Ayyappa returned to Sabarimala for his samadhi (a state of meditative consciousness), Kochu Kadutha refused to return to Pandalam, choosing instead to stay at Sabarimala.

It is said that in olden days, a type of worship (Peeda Pooja) was done by the family members of Kochu Kadutha at Sabarimala during the Makaravilakku festival. When the Sabarimala temple was renovated in 1950, shrines for Valiya Kadutha and Kochu Kadutha, were built.  These shrines are a testament to their unwavering loyalty and bravery, and commemorate their significant contributions to Lord Ayyappa's legacy.