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.
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