Thirayattam
Thirayattam is a ritual performing ethnic art form of the South Malabar region in Kerala state, India. It blend of dance, theatre, music, satire, facial and body painting, masking, martial art and ritualistic function. This vibrant art form has a great resemblance to the traditions and customs of the ancient civilization. Thirayattam usually enacted in courtyards of "kaavukal" and village shrines of south Malabar region in Kerala. Traditionally, the "Perumannan" community has the right to perform this magnificent art form in "kaavukal". Today, the members of "Panan" and "Cherumar" communities also perform Thirayattam. The performer comes into a trance with "Moorthy" or deity whose "Kolam" is enacted and moves vigorously, exhibiting belligerent mannerism and gestures, believed to be divine.
