Theyyam

• 04 Mar 2019

About the Dance form:

• Theyyam is derived from a Sanskrit word ‘Daivam’ which means God’s Dance.
• Theyyam is a popular ritual form of worship in Kolathunadu area of Kerala, which is performed by men only.
• Theyyam is usually performed in front of sacred groves which are locally called as ‘Kaavu’.
• Theyyam is a ritualistic performance where pantheistic deities are summoned to the body of the performing man, one who is almost always from a subaltern community.
• In this dance form, dancers spin and twirl to the frantic drums and they enter a state of trance before collapsing. It takes a while for them to revive after which devotees seek their blessings.

Striking Features of Theyyam:

• People wear colorful costumes and elaborate makeup.
• Performers of Theyyam wear headgears of around 5 to 6 ft.

Instruments used in this Dance Form: Chenda, Tudi, Kuzhal, Veekni etc.

Source: TH