Within Ayyavazhi, Ayya Vaikundar stands as the central divine presence and the very heart of the tradition. He is revered as the supreme, complete incarnation of Narayana or Vishnu, who descends in the age of Kali to destroy adharma and the influence of Kaliyan, and to inaugurate the Dharma Yuga, an era of righteousness. In this vision, he is not merely one avatar among many, but the ultimate embodiment of God whose mission is to rectify the dark age and restore cosmic and social order. His life and deeds, as preserved in the Akilattirattu Ammanai, form the doctrinal and narrative core of Ayyavazhi spirituality.

Ayya Vaikundar’s role unfolds simultaneously on spiritual, social, and institutional planes. As a spiritual teacher, he articulates the fundamental teachings of Ayyavazhi, calling for devotion, moral conduct, and unity that transcends caste and social divisions. As a social reformer, he challenges entrenched caste hierarchies and ritual corruption, especially confronting the oppression faced by marginalized communities in Tamil society. Through this, he becomes a symbol of equality and justice, a healer and guide who embodies the dharma he proclaims.

His work also shapes the concrete religious life of his followers. Ayya Vaikundar establishes the primary centers of worship, the Pathis, and sets in motion the practices and organizational patterns that define Ayyavazhi as a distinct religious path. The Akilattirattu Ammanai not only recounts his life and miracles but also preserves his teachings and prophecies, granting him enduring scriptural authority. Devotees understand his presence as continuing beyond his historical lifetime, guiding them toward the promised Dharma Yuga, where evil is overcome and humanity is united under a single, righteous order.