Theyyam
Theyyam is a popular folklore dance form performed in Hindu temples of Malabar region of Kerala. This dance is known as pootham in Palakkad district, thira in Kozhikode district, theyyam in Kannur and Bhutham in Kasaragod. The performer is mainly from any of the communities - Vannan, Malayan, Munnuttan, Anjuttan, Velan, Koppalan, Chingathan etc.

Theyyam is the local form of God. During the 'theyyam kettiyadal', devotees present their problems to the performer who is supposed to have divine powers. He will suggest solution and guide them with advice. This is known as 'uriyadal'.

The main types of theyyam are Paradevatha, Gulikan, Kali, Kuttichathan, Muthappan, Kadavankottu makkam, Kathivannur veeran theyyam, Bappiriyan theyyam, Khandakarnan theyyam, Mari theyyam etc. The dressing, head gear and the makeup will vary according to the type of Theyyam. It is a vigourous dance lasting for 3 to 4 hour.

The face make up is done using rice powder, lamp black, turmeric powder etc. A red dress over a number of clothes, a head gear of varying shape and size decorated with tender coconut leaves, a number of ornaments and big sound producing anklets.

Kanathur theyyam