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.
TheTheyyam (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.
