Kerala Tourism tells Vavar as Ayyappa’s Muslim companion or warrior ally. That is a sacred tradition, not a securely documented biography.
Hold two kinds of claim apart
The continuing practice is firmer evidence: pilgrims visit the mosque, the Petta Thullal route stops there and the town treats respect for Vavar as part of approaching Sabarimala.
Calling the tradition “history” weakens the account; dismissing the practice because biography is uncertain misses what Erumely actually does.
What to notice on the ground
Watch how people move and offer respect rather than seeking proof in architecture alone. The relationship is enacted by pilgrims.