Puliyoor Kali Theyyam

Puliyoor Kali Theyyam is rooted in the legend of Kali, the goddess of destruction and creation. The particular myth associated with this Theyyam centres on Kali’s dance of destruction and subsequent return to calm, symbolising the cyclical nature of life and the universe. The goddess is invoked to bless agricultural lands, and her dance signifies the life-giving and life-taking aspects of nature. 

The performer embodies the ferocious energy of Kali through frenetic dance movements, often involving high jumps and rapid turns. The climax of the performance symbolises the goddess’s return to her calm form after her dance of destruction, providing an insightful visual representation of the cycle of life and death. 

The attire for this Theyyam involves heavy use of the colour black, synonymous with Kali, and the face painting is intricate, often incorporating patterns that highlight the goddess’s dual nature. Props like swords and shields are common, used to dramatise the narrative further. 

An interesting feature unique to Puliyoor Kali Theyyam is the use of fire. At specific points during the performance, the artist interacts with a ring of fire, symbolising both destruction and purification. This inclusion of elemental fire adds another layer of complexity to the performance, making it an enthralling experience for the audience.