Theyyam

About Theyyam

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Origin & History of Theyyam Festival Theyyam is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Daivam' which means 'God' and is based on the belief that the immortal spirit of the holy deities enters the mortal body of the performer and performs a ritual dance with immense divine significance. The origin of the art of Theyyam is attributed to Manakkadan Gurukkal, the great artist and renowned magician. The King of Chirakkal came to know about Manakkadan's powers and decided to test them. The king invited him over and tried many different ways to challenge and humiliate him by creating many obstacles in his way. However, Manakaddan emerged victorious and stronger after defeating the king in all his pursuits. Finally, the king gave in and acknowledged his greatness and bestowed upon him the prestigious title of 'Gurukkal', which means 'the Master'. The king asked Manakkadan Gurukkal to design the Theyyams that were to be performed in the night, and he delivered. Manakkadan Gurukkal designed over 35 Gurkukkals overnight! To this day, it is the same designs and same manner in which Theyyams are performed and celebrated. How Is Theyyam Celebrated? Celebrating Theyyam is a pompous and joyful affair in Kerala. The mythological significance of this festival gives its celebration a unique and intriguing twist. The principal and most enjoyable part of this fest is the ostentatious presentation of over 400 different cultural dances! Each of these dances is performed in their peculiar way- the performers are bedecked as deities, and they dress according to the role or myth in their part during the play. Everything, right from costumes to makeup, is unique to each performer and they are adorned with flowers, masks and vibrant colours. The celebration is carried out in three stages- First where each performer dresses up as a deity and enacts their role in a play that elaborates the mythological stories associated with the festival. Then there is a brief stage of self-torture which is followed by the celebration and merriment where performers and onlookers dance joyfully to the soulful rhythm and lose themselves in the trance of being with God. When Is Theyyam Celebrated? Theyyam is celebrated in Kerala in December, and the cool and amicable weather during this month is a cherry on the top. The climate in December ranges between a low of 13 degrees Celsius and a high of 23 degrees Celsius. This festival is conducted at more than 100 locations across Kerala at dates and timings decided according to their religious calendar. Most tourists visit Kerala at this time of the month to witness the glorious Theyyam Festival and take advantage of the pleasant weather when they visit the popular attractions of the state.

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