Kenchamma

Kenchamma is the goddess of the village of Kanthapura, and is a symbol of power and divinity. She is invoked both during times of chaos and stability, either to be prayed to or praised. Achakka describes her within the first few pages of the book, showing her connection to Kanthapura as essential. Achakka describes her as, "great and bounteous... never has she failed us in our grief" (2). The people of Kanthapura believe she looks after the village and themselves. She also has a strong connection to nature, as she is often portrayed within the landscape and is given credit for changes with the weather. Ultimately, to the people, Kenchamma represents the very village itself, as her symbolic nature of power and divinity guides the prosperity of Kanthapura.

The River Himavathy

The river Himavathy acts as a powerful symbol of purification in Kanthapura. It is holy for...