Esha Mariya

Neeli is worshiped as a mother goddess in a temple in Panchavankaadu.[1][3]

Kalliyankattu Neeli is a malevolent spirit (Yakshi) who appears in Kerala folk songs, Villadichan songs and folk tales of Travancore.[1][2] Neeli also appears in Marthandavarma, CV Raman Pillai's historical novel.

Marthandavarma (Malayalam: മാർത്താണ്ഡവർമ്മ, Māṟttāṇḍavaṟmma [mɑːṟt̪t̪ɑːɳɖaʋaṟmma]) is a historical romance novel by C. V. Raman Pillai published in 1891. Taking place between 1727 and 1732 (Kollavarsham 901–906), the story follows three protagonists (Ananthapadmanabhan, Subhadra, and Mangoikkal Kuruppu) as they try to protect Marthanda Varma's... See more

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

Villu Paatu (English: Bow Song, Tamil: வில்லுப்பாட்டு), also known as Villadichan Paatu , is an ancient form of musical story-telling method performed in Southern India, where narration is interspersed with music, an art of southern states of Tamil Nadu[1] and Kerala, as well as North-East Sri Lanka.[2] This art form is popular among Nadar castes... See more

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.

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 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.