Shakuni is remembered as one of the most dangerous strategists in the Mahabharata. His dice game with the Pandavas, his influence over Duryodhana and his role in the chain of events leading to the Kurukshetra war have made his name almost synonymous with cunning. Yet, in a small part of Kerala, the story takes an unexpected turn. There is a shrine dedicated to Shakuni where a stone associated with him is revered instead of a conventional idol. The tradition is especially fascinating because it does not fit the simple hero-versus-villain image many people grow up with.
