Theyyam : Dance of Gods

 "Theyyam, The Dance of Gods"

 So let me introduce you all to one of the most oldest tradition in Kerala, that is the Dance of Gods also known as Theyyam in Malayalam. I remember seeing theyyam in my childhood days at my paternal and maternal house. That's the main inspiration behind the doodle art I made recently, please do have a look, 

Initially, when I was small I still remember seeing them dance with all the fire and red attire, the first thought that ran into my mind was "This is so scary"!!! Later every year when I started attending more of these Theyyam, I started understanding this tradition. Let me take you all in ride to know more about Theyyam. 

As we all know Kerala is a state filled with flamboyant variety of traditions, Theyyam being the religious and ritualistic drama originated in Malabar, Northern Belt of Kerala. The dance is filled the hypnotic chants and rythmic chenda beats which is feast for the ears. The visual red attire, the fire lightings, colourful pageantry and vigorous dance moves makes it more trippy to watch it again and again.

This sacred ritual art dates back to atleast 1500 years. It is usually performed before the village shrine, groves, and in some joint-family houses as ancestor-worship with elaborate rites and rituals. The word Theyyam literally means ‘God‘ and hence the Theyyam dance is known as the 'Dance of Gods'. This unique dance form is a synthesis of ritual, dance, vocal and instrumental music, painting, sculpture and also literature and is performed to worship Hindu Goddess Kali for which it is also known as ‘Kaliyattam'.

These theyyam performers are also known as KOLAM by wearing the elaborate make-up and costumes and enacting various roles of Gods with their dance. It is said that during the course of the whole performance it is considered the spirits of deity is tranferred into the artist. Its is believed that theyyam give blessings, also cure illness, and also give solutions to their problems. 

The most sacred part of the costume is the headgear which is made from tender coconut leaves. The facial makeup and the headgear vary from character to character. The crown (muti) is made from bamboo splices and wooden planks which are covered with colour cloths, coconut leaves and flowers. Arm ornaments, breastplates, bangles, garland and other body decorations are also used in Theyyam.

The whole act starts with "Vellattam/Thottam", which is performed with only a small red headdress and no proper make-up or any decorative costume is used during this occasion. After a small interval,  the dancer makes a ritual entrance into the shrine with elaborate costumes and makeup. Theyyam runs all around the shrine and its courtyard, dancing and performing rituals and blessing the devotees. At last, the dancer distributes turmeric powder as a symbol of blessing and also throws rice on the audience.

There are almost 400 types of theyyam performed in Kerala. The most famous ones are Sree Muthappan Theyyam, Gulikan Theyyam, Padikuttiyamma, Puthiya Bhagavathi Theyyam, Perum Kaliyattam, Manakott Amma, Kuttichathan Theyyam, Muchilot Bhagavathi, and many more. 

To know more, why don't you plan a trip to Kerala experience the essence of this tradition. I hope you all liked this article. Please do share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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