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 costumes made out of
natural materials like leaves and bark. Facial decorations, intricately designed and
rich in symbolism, transform the lowly farmer into a deity. Theyyam is always performed
by men. They also enact female roles wearing makeup and colourful costumes. |
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