The dance of the divine - Theyyam, One of the most special and extraordinary festivals one can witness in kerala is none other than theyyam the religious and ritualistic dance-drama originated in malabar, It's a popular festival attracts tourists from all across the world

Theyyam is a sacred ritual art form that dates back to at least 1,500 years and is usually performed before the village shrine, ancestor-worship with elaborate rites and rituals, word theyyam literally means ‘God‘ and hence the theyyam dance is known as the Dance of Gods

This unique dance form is a synthesis of ritual, dance, vocal and instrumental music, painting, sculpture and also literature and is performed to worship Hindu Goddess Kali for which it is also known as Kaliyattam, the theyyam dance is often performed by men

Theyyam is often performed by men and they themselves enact the female roles also by wearing elaborate make-up and costumes. The facial makeup is so intricate that the artist has to lie on the floor for hours while the designs are painted on their faces.

If you happen to visit north malabar regions like kannur, kasaragod, and parts of wayanad and Kozhikode districts between Nov to Mar, you will get a chance to witness the most colourful and ritualist festival of theyyam.