Ayya-Vazhi

Ayya-Vazhi is another religion in Hinduism to worship God in a simple way as taught by Ayya Vikuntar, the manu incarnation of Lord Narayana. Following are some of the signifances of this religion.

• No idol worship
• Pathis and Nizhan-Thangals
• No animal sacrifice
• Vegetarianism
• Ahimsa
• Everybody is equal (No caste, race or creed)
• One God to worship
• Chanting of Lord's name
• Love rather than ritual
• Local language for worship
• God is inside every life

The social and religious reforms of Ayya Vaikuntar attracted lot of people without any boundary of castes and creeds. As He was mainly targetting the poor people, the numerous miracles He performed made the poor and uneducated people come to Him. People called Him 'Ayya' to show their affection and closeness. 'Ayya' means 'dear father' in the Tamil language. His preachings made the uneducated people lead a righteous path.