The origin story of each Chamundi Theyyam is related to the killing of the evil demons Chandamundasura, Shumbhanishumbha, and Raktabeejasura in the myth.
Padinjare Chamundi is one of the seven deities who emerged from the Homa Kund of Mahadev to slay the demons. Apart from Western Chamundi, the other deities who emerged from the Homa Kunda of Mahadev are Panchuruli, Dhumra Bhagavati, Panangat Chamundi, Kala Chamundi, Chudala Kali, and Kanikatti Devi.
It is said that the goddess was first seen swinging on a Koli tree in Mangalam, Mangalore, by a devotee of the goddess. Later, he worshiped at pathoor valanja mala. People then started worshipping the goddess as the guardian goddess of cattle.
Once, thirsty Chamundi reached the house of the padinjar family and was drinking milk . That’s when the goddess saw the Narasimha moorthy idol biting and tearing the cattle and drinking their blood. The goddess, filled with anger, fought with the Narasimha idol and chased him away. It is believed that the goddess, who guarded the Padinjare family, later came to be known as the Padinjare Chamundi.
The people of the Velan and Kopala communities perform the Padinjare Chamundi. The Padinjare Chamundi Theyyam is performed in various kavas and tharavads in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
