What is ‘Theyyam’?
Theyyam is a famous Hindu ritual which means “God” or “The incarnation of God”. It is an ancient folk ritual combining theatre, mime, and worship. Theyyam is also known as Kaliyattam or Tira. Theyyam is created by the fusion of different objects and colors from nature.
Where is Theyaam performed?
It originated in Northern Kerala and some parts of Karnataka. Theyyam is predominantly performed in the northern part of Kerala, particularly in the Malabar region. This region includes districts such as Kannur, Kasaragod, and parts of Calicut. Within these districts, Theyyam performances take place in temples, sacred groves, and sometimes in open spaces as part of religious and cultural events. Each Theyyam performance is associated with specific shrines or Kavus (sacred groves) where the deity is believed to reside, and these locations serve as the primary venues for the ritualistic performances.
When is Theyyam performed?
Theyyam performances are typically held annually, with specific dates varying based on local traditions and customs. These performances often coincide with specific festivals, important occasions, or auspicious times determined by the communities or temples where Theyyam is practiced. The exact timing and schedule of Theyyam performances can differ from one place to another within the region where it is celebrated.
Here are the dates of celebration of Theyyam with the name of temple
Community Involvement in Theyyam
The indigenous tribal communities were handed over the responsibility to perform Theyyam. These tribes included Malayar, Pana, Vanam, and Velam. Velan is referred to in the Sangam literature.
Variety of Theyyam Forms
There are different types of Theyyam performances, each representing a specific deity or character from Hindu mythology. Some popular forms of Theyyam include Kshethrapalan, Pottan Theyyam, and other manifestations of gods and goddesses.
Dress of Theyyam
Theyyam has a unique dress code. It is very colorful. The makeup involves very accurate face painting of various styles. The cosmetic is referred to as Aniyalangal, denoting ‘accessories to be worn’. The bodies of Theyyam dancers are smeared with a paste made of rice and turmeric. The head dress, called a “Mudi,” is made out of bamboo splices and wooden planks, covered with flowers and coconut leaves. Sometimes, pieces of feathers are also used. The face masks used in Theyyam are called Pottan Theyyam, and the dress made from coconut leaves is called ‘Oliyuduppu’ or ‘Olayuduppu’.”
The Theyyam of Kshethrapalan and a few crowns are made out of bamboo splices, which are nearly 50 to 60 feet high. The crown is decorated with colored clothes according to some local customs. Some Theyyams wear a silver diadem, a wooden collar, and a fancy jewel set. Females wear a wooden breastplate generally covered with glittering ornaments.
Musical Accompaniment
Theyyam , a performance is a combination of musical instruments, vocal recitations, dance, and peculiar makeup and costumes. The folk musical instruments of Kerala, such as Chenda, Tuti, Kuzhal, and Veekni, are played in the background in a certain rhythm. This folk dance has different steps called Kalaasams, which are repeated systematically from the first to the eighth footsteps. All the dancers hold a sword in their hands.
Theyyam is performed annually and draws huge crowds. It plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of the region and passing down traditional knowledge and practices from one generation to the next. It serves as a medium for storytelling, community bonding, and spiritual expression. Overall, Theyyam is a vibrant and unique form of cultural expression that holds great significance in the cultural landscape of the Malabar coastal areas. Its rich symbolism, artistic elements, and religious undertones make it a captivating and integral part of the local traditions and beliefs.
