This research article examines the representation of folk deities in the novels of contemporary Tamil writer Cho. Dharman. The study argues that folk deities are not mere objects but symbolic expressions of human existence, encompassing various elements such as form, mythological narratives, songs, rituals, worship practices, celebratory events, aesthetic expressions, and customs. The paper analyzes several significant folk deities portrayed in Cho. Dharman’s works, including female deities like Isakiyammal (associated with women who died violently or by suicide), Pothiyammal (a deity born from protecting honor against feudal oppression), Gomatiyammal (representing the fusion of Shiva and Vishnu), and male figures like Sitthan (representing the Siddhar tradition) and Ulik Karuppan (a memorial deity for those who died violently). The study concludes that these Dravidian deities, predominantly female, reflect the folk life and cultural practices of Tamil rural communities, serving as deified ancestors who continue to influence contemporary social life.
Forschung (Mon,) studied this question.