My
native place Kannur(Kerala,India) is a seat of north malabar's ancient folk art The
Theyyam.This folk art is a mixture of dance, music, mime as well as hero
worship.
When the rainy
season is over, the Kavu (Temple) and ancestral homes with its adjoining fields
will be welcoming the Theyyam Season. The festival begins on the 10th day of
the Malayalam month 'Thulaam' and concludes by mid of 'Edavam' (June first
week) though there are more than 400 theyyam, the most prominent Theyyams are
those of Raktha Chamundi, Kari Chamundi, Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Wayanadu
Kulavan, Gulikan and Pottan.
Theyyam is the
dramatic presentation of the sagas of heroes of yesteryear s. The
stage-practices of Theyyam and its ritualistic observations make it one of the
most fascinating theatrical arts of Kerala. The dancer along with the drummers
recites the particular ritual song, which describes the myths and legends, of
the deity of the shrine or the folk deity to be propitiated. This is
accompanied by the playing of folk musical instruments such as Chenda,
Veekuchenda, Elathalam and Kuzhal . Props such as swords, shields, bows, arrows
and other weapons are also used. Lighted torches are held during the nightly
performance to highlight the dramatic effect and to maintain a fiery ambiance.
The head gear is
decorated with cloth, flowers and palm leaves. In some Theyyams very long Head
gears (50-60 feet) are also used. A bold colored base is painted on the face
and intricate designs made on it. The different styles of these designs depend
on the Theyyam being performed. The skirts are made of bamboo splices and
coconut sheaths painted red and black or from red cloth tied around bamboo
sticks.
Muchilottu Bhagavathi,
My acrylic painting
Website for images: www.sheelapadmanabhan.com
https://www.facebook.com/SheelapadmanabhanpaintingsArt?ref=hl
Website for images: www.sheelapadmanabhan.com
https://www.facebook.com/SheelapadmanabhanpaintingsArt?ref=hl
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