She is a cultural mirror that reflects shifting attitudes toward gender, justice, and power. Once depicted as a cautionary figure whose rage and defiance were painted as monstrous, she is now increasingly understood as a woman wronged, whose vengeance carried deeper social meaning. Modern interpretations see her not as a demonic presence but as a... See more

she was feared for her bloodlust, as she and her brother Neelan were said to drink the blood of livestock during their nocturnal hunts.

She is often described as a shape-shifter, able to disguise herself as a grieving woman carrying a child to manipulate unsuspecting villagers.

She is often called Panchavankattu Neeli, linking her to the forest where she established her dominion. In Pazhayannur, she is remembered for deceiving villagers and slaying her reincarnated husband, giving rise to the name Neeli of Pazhayannur.

This duality of enchanting appearance and deadly intent has made her a central figure in the archetype of the Yakshi, embodying both fascination and fear.