Mari Theyyam is performed at Madayi in Kannur district. This art form is also known as Mariyattam. Usually, this ritual art form is performed by the members of the Pulaya community in North Kerala during the month of Karkkadakam. People believe that they get blessings from Maritheyyam which help to cure all ailments they suffer.
Photos: Ridin Damu
The performers wear beautiful wooden masks and costumes made of tender leaves of coconut tree.
People watching the performance of Maritheyyam
People in the northern districts consider the Theyyam as a god from whom they seek blessings
Thudi (small drum) and Chengila (gong) are among the musical instruments that accompany the performance.
Theyyam blesses a woman.
Theyyams performing in tune with the drum beats
There are six main types of performances in Maritheyyam such as Marikaliyan (or Marikkalivan), Mamayakkaliyan (or Mamayakkalivan), Marikkalachi (or Marikkalichi), Mamayakkalachi (or Mamayakkalichi), Marikkuliyam (or Marikkuliyan) and Mamayakkiliyan (or Mamayakkuliyan).
Theyyam interacting with people and giving the blessings
