THEYYAM

North Malabar has had a distinct identity. It is manifested in a beautiful landscape consisting of unending mountains, fascinating backwaters and beaches, and breathtaking rivers. The people, the food, and cultural heritage of the regions will fascinate the visitors for sure. Theyyam, the magical dance of God, was believed to have been performed as long as 1500 years back. Theyyam festivals are performed during a period spanning from November to June. The spectacular pageant of Theyyam deities - raises Kannur and Kasargod into a land of fabulous fantasies. Theyyam is truly the mesmerizing Dance of God. The art form is a combination of dance, music, and rituals. Theyyam originated from Kaliyattam. The responsibility to perform Theyyam is mainly vested with indigenous tribal communities like Malayan, Panan, Vannan, and Velan, etc. The person designated to perform Theyyam observes strict physical and mental discipline including fasting for 41 days. Certain dangerous feats performed by the Theyyams are attributed to the divine power vibrating in them during the performance. Thaiparadevatha Theyyam, Theechamundi Theyyam, Puthiya Bhagavathi Theyyam, etc are classical examples. The mask and crown, which sometimes be as high as a coconut tree, are painted with deep, bright colors made from natural ingredients available locally. The process of a dance performer slowly transforming to a Theyyam, the incarnations of God, is something intriguing, fascinating, and magical. It is a most visually impressive form of cultural ritual among the people of different castes. There are around 500 or more famous Theyyam festivals celebrated each year in North Malabar, Kerala. Mattapan Theyyams. is performed regularly in quite a few Kavus (Secret Groves). Parshanikadavu is arguably the most famous one where Theyyams are performed regularly. Karnataka Theyyam: performed after the monsoon season, Devakkooth Theyyam in Thekkumbad, the only Theyyam deity performed by a lady are a few examples. If we delve deep into history, we will find many dimensions, which relate to the feudal, social, cultural, and religious practices prevalent in this part of the world. A Theyyam performance offers many acts and frames for the passionate photographer. Theyyam originated from Kaliyattam. In feudal Malabar, Theyyam's performance was in a way an opportunity given to the lower cast to criticize the landlord and powerful class for the atrocities and the wrongdoing committed on the lesser mortal for the past one year. So it was a venting and ranting opportunity, to be heard and obeyed by the person in power because the orders are from God incarnated. We have been networking with the famous Kavus / Secret Groves (local shrines) in the region and hope to act as a bridge for the Theyyam enthusiast. Let’s explore, understand and preserve this magical dance of God.