Esha Mariya

Here, beauty is manifested as a weapon to gain the upper hand over patriarchy and masculine hegemony. The Yakshi becomes an „ other ‟ to the „ family woman ‟ whose sexuality and identity are controlled by her husband or other male family members. Yakshi does not succumb to the patriarchal customs; instead, she questions and mocks the womenfolk who... See more

The story of Neeli narrated in the novel portrays Neeli as a victim of patriarchy. Her reaction to the Brahmin can be seen as an avenge to the suppressing masculinity. It has also been mentioned that Neeli did not attack the Brahmin alone. She continued attacking people, especially men who fell for her lustful smile.

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.

Before being a malevolent spirit, Neeli had been born as Alli, the daughter of Karveni Amma, a Devadasi, who lived in the land of Pakhakannur in the early ninth century with a fierce appearance. Her hair reached her knees, complementing her wide eyes and mesmerizing beauty.[1] She fell in love with and married the priest of the local Shiva temple,... See more