Saint Vavar

Vavar , known reverently as Vavarswami, is a legendary figure from Kerala. He is traditionally believed to be a Muslim companion of the Hindu deity Ayyappan. Various legends describe Vavar’s origins, alternatively identifying him as an Arab sea raider, a revered Muslim mystic, a Syrian immigrant, or a warrior from the Pandya kingdom. The story of Vavar's association with Ayyappan is a significant aspect of the region's spiritual history. A shrine dedicated to Vavar is located at Sabarimala, one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites in Kerala. Additionally, a mosque dedicated to Vavar is situated in Erumely, opposite an Ayyappan temple. There are many legends about Vavar and his association with Ayyappan. Vavar was a Hanafi Rowther. Vavar and his family migrated to the Pathanamthitta district area. The family later resorted to pirate activities to make a living. When Ayyappan defeated Vavar and his pirates, Vavar was impressed by the youth's valour and became the messenger of Lord Ayyappa and helped him in the wars in the mountainous region. As time passed, Vavar too became an ardent devotee of Ayyappa just like Kaduthaswami, and came to be known as Vavarswami. The old sword on the wall of the Vavar mosque symbolises the eminence of Vavar as a great warrior. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa himself instructed the King of the Pandya dynasty to build a mosque for Vavar at Erumely in Kottayam District. The Sabarimala shrine is about 50 km away, deep in the forest in Pathanamthitta district. In another variation, when Ayyappan was looking for tiger milk, he encountered Vavar and became friends. Later, Vavar joined along with him to carry out his mission. In another variation, Vavar is a Muslim saint who came to the region to spread Islam. He joined forces with Ayyappan to defeat the outlaws.