Mudiyettu - a Ritual Art Form

Mudiyettu is a glorious ritual dance performed in Kaali Temples across God’s Own Country, predominantly in Central Kerala (Ernakulam and Kottayam), celebrating the triumph of Goddess Kaali over the demon Darikan. It is performed exclusively by the Kuruppu or Marar communities of the State, with heavy makeup, gorgeous attire with conventional facial paintings, tall headgears and gigantic ornaments adding to the supernatural mystique of the performance.

Before the performance begins, the Kalamezhuthu, a ritual drawing of the Goddess Kaali is made on the floor with dyed powders. There is a chorus in the background, singing hymns in praise of the Goddess. Right before the performance begins, the dancer erases the Kalam with tender palm fronds. The performer in the role of Kaali is joined by 'Koimpata Nayar', the local guide and Kooli, the attendant. Legends say that Darikan, the epitome of evil, challenged Kaali to a duel. Kaali slayed Darikan, with the blessings and grace of Lord Siva.A wooden headgear with a mask of the Goddess, along with an ornamental red vest and a long white cloth help elevate it to one of the most revered performances in all of Kerala.