Culture of Kerala

Theyyam is one of the most outstanding folk arts of Kerala and has its origin in the northern parts of the state. Also called Thirayattam, (because every thira or village performed this ritualistic art at the village temple) this primitive ritualisic art demands long hours preparation before the performance.

The Theyyam (a form or shape) represents a mythological, devine or heroic character. There are over 350 Theyysma in northen Kerala. The hood, headdress , face painting, Breast plate, bracelets,garlands and fabric of attire of each of these Theyyams are distinct and meticulously crafted according to the character presented. Musical accomaniments are chenda and veekuchenda (drums), elathalam and Kuzhal(horn). This art form is mostly performed in Bhagavathy temples. Performances are on between october and May. Thira is the main subdivision of Theyyam.

Cherumarkali is a harvest dance in which the dancers, both men and women move in a swift rhythm, linked in a back lock or holding arms. The costumes are in striking red and white.

Kaalavela is a spectacular procession of huge, gaudily decorated motifs of bulls (kaala.)

Kalampattu (kalamezhuthu pattu) is another folk art form that belongs to the northern regions of Kerala. This art form which is over 600years old is performed by a group of five to fifteen people in Bhadrakali and Ayyappa temples. The rituals is performed around the kolam -an elaborate picture, usually of Bhadrakali, drawn on the floor, using five colours. The performance in the light of temple torches lasts through the night. The singers are neatly dressed with women wearing their hair on the side of the head. A series of songs (kalampattu) are sung to the accompaniment of nanthuni and elathalam.

Kalaripayattu is the comprehensive system of martial arts if Kerala, regarded as one of the oldest and most scientific in the world. Kalaripayattu training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of mind and body. The traditional training in a Kalari includes specialisation in indigenous medical practices too. Kalaris are also centres of religious worship.

Kaliyoottu is an eight day long colourful folk ritual which re-enacts the combat between goddess Durga and the demon Darika. The ritual is performed in different stages. The climax of the play- the ritual called paranettu- is performed on a specially constructed 100 feet high stage on the eight day.