Theyyam

Theyyam is a type of play performed only at North Kerala, Districts Kannur and Kasargod. Theyyam is where metaphysical thoughts and expressions of immortal souls are impersonated to a believer through a mortal body.

Theyyam is believed to be originated from a tribal dance know as Kaliyattam.Theyyam has changed a lot from its origin. In Theyyam the actor acts god, the actor has to go by many traditions such as fasting, dieting, observe vegetarianism and undergoing a kind of solitary life without mingling with local people.

The act is on gods and goddess stories. The actor after the makeup and rituals becomes god and acts like one too, starts speaking, moving, blessing and even healing as a god or goddess .

Theyyam Blessing

Vellatam of Puliyoor Kandan

Some Theyyams are honored by with Tottam or ritual song. For some warrior gods, a Vallattam is must , its a dance with martial arts. Every Tharavadu will have Theyyam at olden days but with lack of funding ,the Theyyam may be stopped.

Becoming God

Becoming God

The most important part of Theyyam is " becoming god ". After the make up and ritual, the artist look into a small hand mirror. He stares at it for some it. At this moment the artist slips into another state of being. His eyes fixed straight into the mirror. This moment is known as Mukhadarshanam.It is the moment when mortal become god.

Kolam Of Vishnumoorthy Theyyam

Kolam

The costume and make up is known as Kolam. Some Kolams take a lot of time, to paint and dress up according to rules and regulations by traditions. The headdress, crowns, breastplates, ornaments and bangles play a massive role in Kolam. The site is a marvelous one. The Theyyam's Kolam is different for each Theyyam. Is its said that the ornaments of Kathakali originated from this. The most feared and scared and powerful element of Kolam is Mudi or the headdress. It is put on to the artist on a sacred stool.

Theyyam with Sword

Swords And Other Weapons.

Swords play an important role in the rituals of Theyyam. Bow and Arrows, Shields and many other weapons are used in the rituals. Sometimes swords of high order are displayed.

Theyyams are generally on nights so clothe torches and coconut leaf torches are used. Theyyam dancing under the light of fire is a wonderful sight.

Tottam

Tottam

Certain deities are initially honored with the tottam, or song ritual, when the artist, wearing a simple costume and with minimal makeup, sings the song that relates not only to the deity's myth, but also to the origins of his or her relationship with the particular shrine.
The full throated singing of Tottam songs in the open air, the subdued articulation of the Tottam (revelations) and the inaudible chanting of the mantras form different variations of using the inner energy that gushes out while the Theyyam dancer is in a possessed state. The folk singer while he sings out in a loud voice, accompanying the dancing or along with his own dancing steps, uses simple but effective language and straight but thought provoking images.