FAQ

What is Special about the Theyyam festival in Kerala?

Theyyam is considered a sacred ritual and is closely associated with the religious beliefs of the local communities. It is a means of seeking divine blessings. There are numerous Theyyam deities, each with its own unique characteristics and stories. Some of the popular ones include Vishnumoorthi, Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Raktha Chamundi and Kandanar Kelan. Theyyam is a form of ritualistic worship. The performers, while embodying the deity, communicate with the divine through ritualistic gestures, expressions and movements. The audience, in turn, seeks blessings and protection from the deity being invoked. The movements in Theyyam are highly stylized and intense. Each Theyyam performance has a set of distinct patterns of movements which relate to the deity being portrayed.

The musical accompaniment usually includes traditional instruments like chenda (drum), elathalam (miniature cymbals) and thottam (a type of flute). The rhythm and beats of the music play a crucial role in enhancing the overall impact of the performance. The performers, known as Theyyam artistes or Theyyakkolams, wear elaborate costumes and makeup. The makeup involves the use of natural pigments, including a distinctive red and black colour scheme. The intricate face paintings often represent specific deities or characters. The dance form has evolved over generations and incorporated folklore, mythology and other traditions.