Kolli Hills and the Myths Within

Kolli Hills

And the Myths Within:

 We made our journey into the Mariamman temple, spotting, at the foot of the steps, nothing but a thatched hut. Yet, that was what we had in mind, until we saw a figure who would make the bones of rakshasas chill to the marrow and yet increase faith in her devotees: Mariamman herself, teeth painted on the sides of her mouth and eyes that watched us with mysterious intent.

Climbing the steps to reach the actual temple, we wondered how there could be two figures of her at the same place. Holding that thought, we saw her other figure, with her having such fearsome eyes that they looked right through our spirit. Yet, that is true for only those who fear her; those who do not will never feel the same way. The body was missing, not unlike many other Amman temples, proving that she did not need even strength to protect us- only her sight and her mystical powers.

This, however, was not the only incident that stood in my mind. Something else happened as well. Something that put me in utter disbelief.

As we drove past some thick-bushed fields after some coffee, momos and potato shots that we craved, we spotted something, or rather someone, moving into these very bushes. His face was turned the other way. He was hunched and seemed to be retreating somewhere. He wore some loose robes and a cloth that covered both his shoulders and his back. This mysterious person seemed to be walking into the bushes while holding a cane for support, confirming our suspicion about his age. Yet, he confirmed our suspicion for something else as well.

That he was a pilgrim, and not just ANY pilgrim:

He was a siddhar.

-Sahana Raghuraman