Ayyavazhi stands apart from many Hindu traditions through its very origin and self-understanding. It arises in a relatively recent historical period through the life and teachings of Ayya Vaikundar, regarded as an incarnation of Narayana and as a supreme avatar for the present age. Rather than emerging gradually from ancient Vedic currents, it takes shape as a distinct movement with its own clear narrative of cosmic history, centered on the struggle against Kali and the establishment of a final age of righteousness, often described as Dharma Yukam. This gives Ayyavazhi a more linear and focused eschatological vision than is typically emphasized in broader Hindu practice.

Its scriptural foundation also marks a significant divergence. The primary text, Akilattirattu Ammanai, along with related writings, is composed in Tamil and is treated as uniquely authoritative within the tradition. While Hindu concepts and figures are acknowledged, this scripture provides a specific account of creation, fall, and redemption, as well as the life and mission of Vaikundar, tailored to the social and cultural landscape of South India. The use of vernacular Tamil rather than Sanskrit reinforces a sense of accessibility and rootedness in local experience, while still operating within a recognizably dharmic framework.

The social vision of Ayyavazhi is another major point of distinction. From its inception, it has been explicitly opposed to caste hierarchy and untouchability, making social equality not merely an ethical ideal but a defining religious commitment. Communal dining, shared worship, and practices that erase ritual distinctions between communities function as concrete expressions of this stance. This emphasis on social reform, including advocacy for those historically marginalized, is woven directly into its theology of dharma and unity, rather than treated as a secondary or optional concern.

Ritually and institutionally, Ayyavazhi also follows its own path. Worship is centered in Pathis and Nizhal Thangals, which tend to be simpler than orthodox temples and often lack the elaborate liturgies and priestly hierarchies associated with Brahmin-led worship. The focus on the formless divine, the centrality of Vaikundar, and distinctive observances such as specific forms of penance, communal reading of scripture, and festivals like Ayya Vaikunda Avataram create a devotional atmosphere that is both familiar in its use of Hindu symbols and yet clearly differentiated. In this way, Ayyavazhi presents itself as a dharmic stream that shares many conceptual roots with Hinduism while articulating a unique synthesis of theology, social ethics, and ritual life.