Tradition: Tamil folklore, Sri Lanka Mythology
Alternative Names: Amuku Pey
Category: Demon

The Myth

Amuku Pey is an evil spirit in Tamil folklore, particularly among the Tamil people of Sri Lanka. It is associated with sleep and is said to press down upon the chests of sleeping people.

The Amuku Pey is a personification of sleep paralysis, appearing at night while a person is asleep and creating the terrifying sensation of pressure upon the chest.

Sources

“Амуку-пей (Amuku Pey).” New Bestiary (Bestiary.us). Accessed September 6, 2026. https://www.bestiary.us/amuku-pei/en