The Legend of Naranath Bhranthan

The renowned literary figure Kottarathil Sankunni serialized numerous folk tales in the Malayalam Manorama newspaper and Bhashaposhini magazine. These legendary stories and myths—including those of Naranath Bhranthan, Kadamattathu Kathanar, Unniyarcha, and Thacholi Othenan—were eventually compiled into the monumental masterpiece titled Aithihyamala (The Garland of Legends). Today, this work can be found in almost every library across Kerala and is readily available in bookshops.

The story you are about to read is about Naranath Bhranthan, a prominent figure among the twelve children of the legendary Parayi Petta Panthirukulam.

The tale of Naranath Bhranthan rolling the giant stone is world-famous. It is widely believed that he lived on Rayiranellur Hill in the Palakkad district.

Every morning, he would begin rolling a massive boulder from the foot of the hill toward the summit. By noon, he would finally reach the top. Then, with a loud burst of laughter, he would push the stone back down! Watching it crash to the bottom, he would roar with mirth, only to repeat the entire process the next day.

While the locals mocked these actions as the whims of a "madman," there was deep philosophy hidden within his deeds.

His message was clear: no matter how high a person rises, a sudden and steep fall is always possible. Hard work can seemingly go to waste, and wealth, fame, or power can vanish in an instant. He also taught that one should strive for their own inner joy and satisfaction, regardless of what others might think.

As years passed, a statue of Naranath Bhranthan was installed on Rayiranellur Hill, where a large stone can still be seen today.

Furthermore, his famous outcry while looking at the sun—"Is it noon yet? Is the sun at its peak?"—carries a profound meaning. It is a question posed to every human being: has the "light of knowledge" (symbolized by the sun) finally reached the peak of your consciousness?