Nowadays, there is a lot of talk about Muslim immigrants not being welcomed in India. But, when one reads folklore of South India, one finds many places where Muslims saints and warriors are accommodated within local Hindu temple lore. Here are four examples.

In Kerala, we have heard of the temple of Sabarimala, of the god Ayyappa, the son of Shiva and Vishnu, who is raised by a local king and who transforms into a great warrior; one who can domesticate tigers and who kills the demoness, Mahishi. We are told that he had a companion called Vavar. Vavar, or Babar, is described as a Sufi saint who came from Arabia to Kerala, or a pirate, who travelled to Kerala and disturbed the sea merchants who traded between Kerala and Arabia. He was subdued or overpowered by Ayyappa. After which Vavar became Ayyappa's friend. A dargah in his memory is built, which is visited by pilgrims who visit Sabarimala each year. There is a sword of Vavar-swami, indicating military roots. He is considered to be the companion, friend, devotee, as well as messenger of Lord Ayyappa.