Ammavaru

According to some Hindu legends, Ammavaru is an ancient goddess who laid the egg that hatched Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. In fact, "Amma" is a term meaning mother.

According to other Hindus, however, Shiva is without birth or death. Similar beliefs exist for Vishnu.

Annually, the women of a household of South India conduct a ritual prayer to Ammavaru. A metal pot filled with rice is used to symbolize the Goddess' body. The pot is clothed in a traditional sari. At the mouth of the pot, a painted coconut is used to symbolize the head. Varying implements are used to fashion the eyes, ears, and nose of the Goddess.