A traditional art form which is more than eight centuries old, Theyyam is one of the most spectacular of the ritual arts forms of Northern Kerala. Theyyam performances include the myths and stories of the many gods and celestial spirits in Kerala mythology, and its performers are vigilant and committed to guarding the purity of the art form and preserving its ritualistic heritage.
Theyyam, believed to have been derived from the word Daivam, meaning god, is based on the belief that immortal spirits enter into mortal bodies to perform a ritual dance of divine revelation. The spectacular varieties of Theyyam performances are possible through the use of elaborate facial make-up, captivating headgear, special costumes and unique ornaments. Theyyams are staged in various temples of Malabar, usually in front of the village shrine, with regularity each year. As performances are on an "open stage" they can also be showcased in traditional Malabar households during festive or special occasions.
The calendar below contains illustrations and images of some Theyyam festivals in Malabar. It highlights temple locations, dates of performances and details of the contact persons associated with upcoming shows. This collection includes videos of Theyyam performances at locations across North Malabar. The videos will provide an idea of the costumes, rhythm, music and dance of this rich art form of Kerala.
Temple | Approximate Date |
---|---|
Thaivalappil Tharavadu Kandothu | 28 February to 1 March 2025 |
Kunnunjaal Sri Muthappan Madappura | 28 February to 1 March 2025 |
Chambadu Sree Koormba Temple | 5 to 8 March 2025 |
Koyon Temple (Pulitharammal Sree Bhagavathy Temple) | 5 to 6 March 2025 |
Vadassery Padinjarekkara Sree Puthiyara Bhagavathy Temple | 9 to 11 March 2025 |
Gurukkalottu Bhagavathy Temple | 10 to 12 March 2025 |
Chammaradethu Devi Temple | 14 to 15 March 2025 |
Dharmadam Sree Mariyamman Temple | 26 to 27 March 2025 |
Thottummal Kavullathil Sree Kali Temple | 28 to 29 March 2025 |
Sree Kuttichathan Madam | 30 March to 1 April 2025 |
Kadukkaaram Sree Karimanal Chamundeshwari Devasthanam | 31 March to 1 April 2025 |
Ganeshan Kavu Dharmadam Sathram | 1 to 3 April 2025 |
Malliyodu Palottu Kavu | 14 to 18 April 2025 |
Peringode Illam Thazhekkavu Bhagavathy Temple | 17 to 18 April 2025 |
Perikamana Illam | 17 to 18 April 2025 |
Nilayara Bhagavathy Temple | 18 to 21 April 2025 |
Chirakkavu Bhagavathy Temple | 22 to 25 April 2025 |
Murikkoli Tharavadu Temple | 11 to 13 May 2025 |
Puthiya Kunnathu Puthiya Bhagavathy Temple | 27 to 28 November 2025 |
Naduvalathu Kottam | 2 to 3 December 2025 |
Aduthila Guliyanka Bhagavathy Temple | 6 to 7 December 2025 |
Pazhayangadi Railway Muthappan Madappura | 14 to 15 December 2025 |