AFP
Each performance of Theyyam is both a theatrical performance and an act of devotion.
For nearly 300 years, a family's ancestral home in the southern Indian state of Kerala has been the scene of Theyyam, an ancient folk ritual.
Rooted in ancient tribal traditions, Theyyam predates Hinduism while being part of Hindu mythology. Each performance is both a theatrical spectacle and an act of devotion, transforming the performer into a living embodiment of the divine.
The predominantly male performers from Kerala and parts of neighboring Karnataka portray deities through elaborate costumes, face painting and trance-like dances, mime and music.
Every year, nearly a thousand Theyyam performances take place at family estates and temples in Kerala, traditionally performed by men from marginalized castes and tribal communities.
It is often called ritual theater because of its electrifying drama, featuring daring acts like walking on fire, diving into burning embers, chanting occult verses, and prophesying.
Historian KK Gopalakrishnan has celebrated his family's legacy of welcoming Theyyam and the ritual's vibrant traditions in a new book, Theyyam: An Insider's Vision.
It explores the deep devotion, rich mythology and surprising developments of this art, including the rise of Theyyams performed by Muslims in a tradition rooted in tribal and Hindu practices.
KK Gopalakrishnan
Theyyams are performed in the courtyard of Mr. Gopalakrishnan's old joint family home (above) in Kasaragod district. Hundreds of people gather to watch the performances.
Theyyam season in Kerala is generally from November to April, which is the post-monsoon and winter months. During this period, many temples and family estates, especially in northern Kerala districts like Kannur and Kasaragod, host performances.
Themes of performances in Mr. Gopalakrishnan's house include honoring a deified ancestor, veneration of a warrior-hunter deity and worship of tiger spirits symbolizing strength and protection.
KK Gopalakrishnan
Before the performance honoring a local goddess, a ritual is held in a nearby forest, revered as the deity's earthly abode.
After an elaborate ceremony (above), the “spirit of the goddess” is then carried into the house.
Mr. Gopalakrishnan is a member of the Nambiar community, a matrilineal branch of the Nair caste, where the eldest maternal uncle oversees arrangements. If he is unable to fulfill this role due to age or illness, the next oldest male member steps in.
KK Gopalakrishnan
The women of the family, especially the oldest among them, play a crucial role in the rituals.
They ensure traditions are respected, prepare rituals and supervise the layout of the house.
“They enjoy great respect and are an integral part of maintaining the family legacy,” says Mr. Gopalakrishnan.
KK Gopalakrishnan
The show is a mixture of loud screams, flaming torches and intense scenes of epics or dances.
Artists sometimes suffer the physical consequences of these daring actions, with traces of burns or even the loss of a limb.
“Fire plays an important role in some forms of Theyyam, symbolizing purification, divine energy and the transformative power of the ritual. In some performances, the Theyyam dancer interacts directly with the fire, walking through the flames or wearing lit torches, signifying the invincibility of divinity and supernatural abilities,” says Mr. Gopalakrishnan.
“The use of fire adds a dramatic and intense visual element, further enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the show and illustrating the power of divinity over natural forces.”
KK Gopalakrishnan
Deities can be manifestations of gods and goddesses, ancestral spirits, animals, or even forces of nature.
Here, the Theyyam performer (above) plays Raktheswari, a fierce manifestation of Kali, the Hindu goddess of destruction.
She is depicted drenched in blood, a powerful symbol of her raw energy and destructive force.
This intense ritual addresses themes of witchcraft, voodoo and divine wrath.
Through dramatic costumes and ritual dances, the show channels the powerful energy of Kali, invoking protection, justice and spiritual purification.
KK Gopalakrishnan
During the performance, the artist (or kolam) transforms into these deities, through elaborate costumes and body paint, their vibrant colors bringing the deities to life.
Here, a performer meticulously adjusts her goddess outfit, checking her gaze in the mirror before embarking on the ritual. The transformation is as much an act of devotion as it is preparation for the electrifying performance to come.
KK Gopalakrishnan
Distinct facial markings, intricate patterns and vibrant hues – particularly vermillion – define the unique makeup and costumes of the Theyyam.
Each look is carefully crafted to symbolize the deity depicted, showcasing the rich diversity and detail that distinguishes this ritual art. Some Theyyams do not require makeup but only use masks.
KK Gopalakrishnan
Theyyam's animist roots shine through in his respect for nature and its creatures.
This slithering crocodile deity, Theyyam, symbolizes the power of reptiles and is worshiped as a protector against their dangers.
With his detailed costume and realistic movements, he showcases humanity's deep connection with nature.
KK Gopalakrishnan
Sometimes the deity blesses a large congregation of worshipers after a performance.
Here, a devotee unloads her troubles before Puliyurkali, a powerful manifestation of Goddess Kali, seeking solace and divine intervention.
As she offers her prayers, the sacred space becomes a moment of spiritual liberation, where devotion and vulnerability intertwine.
