Vairajathan Theyyam

In defiance of Lord Shiva’s command, Sati Devi attended the sacrificial ceremony conducted by her father, Daksha. Feeling humiliated there, she immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. Infuriated by this, Shiva tore a lock of his hair and slammed it on the ground, from which arose Veerabhadra, also known as Vairajathan. This deity is also popularly known as Rakthajathan and Vamban Thampuran. 

Recognized as a significant deity among the Nairs, Veerabhadra, along with his sister Kali, laid waste to Daksha’s ceremonial hall and beheaded him. Pleased with his actions, Shiva dispatched him to Earth to serve as a guardian deity and a hunter’s aid. Veerabhadra was instrumental in securing the Alladam region for King Kolathiri.

The ritualistic dance of Vairajathan is performed atop a hill, typically every two or three years. The ‘Vellattam’ associated with this ritual can induce a frenzied state among devotees. A prevalent belief exists that anyone touched by the deity’s ‘Thattu’ (touch) will lose their life before the next performance, compelling people to maintain a safe distance. Because of this, people refer to Vairajathan’s performance as “Thattum Vellattam” and the Theyyam ritual as “Thattum Theyyam. The deity’s ferocious demeanour eventually subsides, transitioning to a calm state.