Goddess Maramma is a manifestation of mother goddess that is worshipped in South India, especially in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. She protects people from epidemic diseases and is also known as Mari, Masanamma, Chaudi, Kali and Karali. Some people believe she is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and refer to her as Maheshwari.
In many villages in South India, Goddess Maramma is also an incarnation of Goddess Renuka Devi, mother of the Parashurama Avatar of Srihari Vishnu.
She is worshipped for a peaceful and happy life – without any ailments. She stops all epidemics. She is mother to those who follow the path of Dharma. Nemesis to all those who indulge in Adharmic activities.
In Tantric worship, Goddess Maramma is a blood thirsty deity. But this form is currently limited to some temples in rural areas and is not encouraged by majority of rural Hindus.