Epic stories and characters are the foundation for several artistic narratives, however they exhibit a strong regional flavour visually, linguistically, and ritualistically. Arjuna, a well-known character from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, is one of the heroes renowned for his mastery in archery, warfare, and the arts. Arjunanrutham, a dance ritual named after Arjuna, is predominantly performed in the Alappuzha and Kottayam districts of Kerala. Like many other ritual performance forms of Kerala, Arjuna Nrutham shares its cultural roots with the Goddess worship system of Kerala. Another name for Arjuna Nrutham is Mayilpeeli Thookkam, derived from the extensive use of peacock feathers (Mayilpeeli) in the costume. Members of the Ezhava community are the primary performers of Arjunanrutham. 

Myth
The legend behind this art form traces back to the Mahabharata Yuddha (the epic battle between the Kauravas and Pandavas in the presence of Lord Krishna). When the Pandavas were exiled, their mother Kunti prayed to Goddess Bhadrakali for support and strength to help her sons regain their kingdom. Kunti promised to offer a human life (Balidaanam) to Bhadrakali, a significant offering in Bhadrakali worship. After the battle, the Pandavas won and reclaimed their land, but Kunti forgot her promise to Kali. Goddess Kali sent Sage Narada to remind the eldest of Pandava brother- Yudhistira, of his mother's oath. Arjuna, Kunti’s third son, offered his life to Goddess Kali to fulfil his mother's promise. According to the myth, Arjuna arrived in a chariot, receiving various gifts from different gods, such as peacock feathers from Lord Muruga and a crown from Indra. Pleased with his self-offering, Kali spared his life. Arjuna's dance, performed out of joy and devotion to Goddess Kali, is believed to be the origin of this art form. 

Performance
The costume is a highlight of Arjuna Nrutham. As the name Mayilpeeli Thookkam suggests, peacock feathers are a major component used to decorate the lower cloth, which resembles Kathakali attire but is adorned with peacock feathers. The crown and jewellery also resemble those used in Kathakali and Ottan Thullal. The face makeup is significant, where they use natural elements like powdered stone to paint the face green and the lips red.

The performance comprises rhythmic steps and martial art movements, with songs following indigenous rhythm systems of Kerala, featuring around 108 patterns. The performance begins with Arjuna's entry in a chariot, followed by his bowing (namaskaram) in front of Kali and then starts the dance steps. The dance begins with a rhythm pattern called Ganapathi Thalam, followed by various pieces in different rhythms known as ‘Kavithams’. Before each variation, the artist explains the rhythm pattern before commencing the dance movements. Chenda, Maddalam, Thalachenda, and Elathalam are the commonly used percussions for Arjunanrutham performance.