Poomaruthan Theyyam

According to sacred lore, Poomala Devi was revelling in a celestial garden alongside her companions when she expressed a desire to pluck flowers. The garden’s divine sentinels, however, forbade it. Undeterred, Poomala sought the assistance of a guardian who was of Shivaic origin and was at that moment manifesting as the wind within a blooming flower. Known affectionately by Poomala as ‘Poomarutha’—a name deriving from ‘Poo’ (flower) and ‘Maruthan’ (wind) in Malayalam—he acquiesced and subsequently forged a fraternal bond with her. The pair then descended to Earth, specifically to the region known as Malanad.

In a narrative variation, Arya princess Aryapoonkani, who was imbued with the essence of Poomala Devi, embarked on a maritime journey with Poomaruthan. Their vessel, crafted by the divine architect Vishwakarma, sailed toward the Oriyara estuary in Cheruvathur. Here, they were graciously welcomed by Vishnumurthy, the presiding deity of the Oriyara temple, with offerings of tender coconut water. It is believed that both Poomala and Poomaruthan have sanctuaries dedicated to them in Oriyara, situated in the Kasaragod district.

As for the ritualistic portrayal of Poomaruthan in the form of Theyyam, the character is aesthetically and symbolically rich. The performer dons elaborate face and body art, incorporating naturally sourced materials. The visage features a black moustache and beard, while the head is adorned with a grandiose wooden crown, known as Mudi. Depending on the timing of the performance—night-time enactments showcase a smaller Mudi, while daytime rituals feature a larger one—the Theyyam wields a sword and a wooden shield. The choreography is vigorous, involving intricate twirls of the shield and sweeping sword movements. During the performance, ritual assistants known as Valyakars, as well as spectators, are struck with the shield, an act that incites collective fervour and excitement.