Theyyam

A dance form glorifying the goddess. Theyyam, the local deity, is believed to bless and arbitrate between the farmers and their landlords. Each one has a distinguishing headgear and costume made out of natural materials like leaves and bark. Facial decorations are intricately designed and rich in symbolism, transforming the lowly farmer into a deity. Theyyam is always performed by men, they also enact female roles wearing makeup and colourful costumes.