Malikappurathamma

Malikappurathamma holds a place of great significance as the most important sub-deity at Sabarimala. Devotees who ascend the Pathinettampadi (18 steps) and bow to Sri Dharma Shasta must pay their respects to Malikappurathamma upon their return. Worshipped as Bhagavathi (Goddess) at Sabarimala, Malikappurathamma is honoured with the Guruthi ritual, performed for Bhadrakali, at the end of the Makaravilakku festival.  The traditional Guruthi Pooja is performed outside by the Kuruppans of the Kunnakad family from Ranni, Kerala.

Malikappurathamma is said to derive her name from residing in the mansion-like Sri Kovil (sanctum). The Guruthi ritual is conducted in the presence of a royal representative from Pandalam. Malikappurathamma is also worshiped as Madurai Meenakshi due to the historical traditions of the Pandya dynasty. Numerous legends and oral traditions surround Malikappurathamma.

According to a legend, Lord Harihara (Lord Vishnu and Lord Siva) took the incarnation of Lord Ayyappa to defeat the demoness Mahishi. After Mahishi was slain, she transformed herself into a beautiful woman and expressed her desire to remain with Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala, becoming Malikappurathamma.

Another story recounts Poonkodi, the daughter of a Kalari master (martial arts teacher), falling in love with Ayyappa when he came to learn Kalari (martial arts) at Cheerappanchira Kalari. An oral tradition tells of Poonkodi representing Malikappurathamma's wish to remain at the mansion.