Theyyam is a grand dance festival in Kerala and is celebrated many regions of the state including Kasargod. Theyyam is considered as Dance Gods and the name has been given to it by adding two words ‘Deivam’ and ‘Aattam’, where ‘Deivam’ means God and ‘Aattam’ translates to dance. This dance is performed to honour the heroes and ancestral spirits.. The dance is performed in various places of North Malabar like Karivallor, Kurumathoor, Nileswaram, Ezhom, and Cherukunnu every year between December and April. And it is performed each day at Parassini Kadava Sri Muthappan Temple in Kannur.
It is said to be ritual dance in Kerala and is also known as Kaliyattam. This dance form incorporates a dance, and music with mime. Theyyam is believed to be distinguished into 400 forms each has its unique style, make-up, costumes, songs, choreography. The most prominent Theyyams are the Pottan, Gulikan, Bhagavati, Kari Chamundi, and Raktha Chamundi. Things worth noticing in Theyyam are the ornamental decorations, their size and appearance.
(Theyyam)
