Theyyam

Theyyam is one of the most colourful and visually appealing art forms of Kerala. This ritual art, with some essential tribal elements about it, has won international reputation for its unique artistic as well as cultural aspects.

Derived from the word Daivam, mending God, Theyyam or Theyyattam is most commonly found in the districts of Kannur, Wayanad and Kasaragod in northern Kerala.

Sree Thayyil Wayanattu Kulavan temple in Kannur district is a rustic centre of worship with all its traditional charm. Dedicated to Wayanattu Kulavan, who, according to myths, is the son of Lord Shiva. He is the traditional deity of the Ezhava community of the Malabar region.

This small shrine is dedicated to many other deites like Puliyoor Kannan, Gulikan and Ilayidathu Bhagavathy. All these folk deities are essentially associated with those cultural elements of Malabar, which are even now safeguarded in the villages here.

The annual Vellaattam festival celebrated in the temple is remarkable for a variety of Theyyam performances held. Vayanattu Kulavan, Gulikan and Puliyoor Kannan are some Theyyam figures presented. In the video, some rituals associated with the festival is featured.