Theyyam festival kerala

Theyyam is an artistic dance form where metaphysical belief and expressions of immortal souls are take off to a devotee through a mortal body. Theyyam originated from "Kaliyattam" once practiced by the tribal society of north Kerala. Theyyam had grown to the present appearance through many transfo Theyyam is an artistic dance form where metaphysical thoughts and expressions of immortal souls are impersonated to a believer through a mortal body. Theyyam originated from "Kaliyattam" once practiced by the tribal community of north Kerala. Theyyam had grown to the present form through many transformations since its beginning. Landlords and chieftains of those days are the main forces behind many of such transformations.

The community and its body began to use this art to propagate the major theme of social enforcement. The artists are also encouraged by the authorities to introduce new themes into its traditional forms and classified different acts and expressions to match specific needs for their desire. The character representations were very broad. They range from mild to wild in representations. Theyyam is a sect in which old heroes are sanctified and worshipped as the guardians of villages and homes.

Season of Theyyam keep on for six months start from the Malayalam month of Thulaam (October-November) and continues till Edavam (May-June). Most Theyyam festivals are held majorly in the province of Valapattanam River of Kannur district and Chandragiri River of Kasargod district. Prominent amongst all places is the Theyyam of Malabar region in north Kerala.

Theyyam is performed by male members of particular castes only. Malayan, Pulayan, Vannan, Anjoottan, Munnutton, Velan, Chungathan, Koppalan and Mayilon are some of the castes who perform theyyam.


Read More: Major Festivals of God's Own Country Kerala