Edasseri is weaving a myth around Pootham, a folklore idol who appears dancing to the rhythm of drum- beats and short pipes on every courtyard after the summer harvest. The grotesque figure is fully adorned with classic brass ornaments making a cluttering sound as it moves about. Mothers eagerly await the appearance of Pootham (a Poltergeist) in their courtyard as it is supposed to bring prosperity. The children also wait in anticipation as they are fascinated by it, and yet scared.
But in the olden days people used to abhor the Pootham for its cruel ways. Pootham used to cast its magical powers on innocent and hapless people. For instance, people in a hurry to reach their home in the dusk to join their dear ones used to get confused by the magic spell cast on them by Pootham and forget their own way. Everything around them turn misty and once they realize that they are under the magic spell, they used to promptly offer some betel-leaf and betal-nut and keep them by the wayside. Instantaneously the mist dissolves and the entire path becomes clear. When they are gone, Pootham comes stealthily and chews the betel leaves with nuts and spit out the red spit all over "Thechi" shrubs, colouring the Thechi flowers into deep red hue. It also used its magical powers to turn itself into a pretty woman to lure men. She in fact lured youngsters who were looking for fun and took them on to the top of a palm tree - which appeared as if it were a seven story building. Once ensconced at the top, Pootham used to suck the blood of these fun loving young men. What remained of these unfortunate fellows- their bones and hair- lay scattered on the other side of the rocks.
All this happened long long ago. Now Pootham does'nt hurt anyone. She is sad. You know why....?
