Theyyam museum to be built in Kannur district of Kerala

Kannur and its related northern districts of Kerala are known for the Theyyam performances. It is a famous ritual form of worship involving ancient traditions, customs and rituals. Now, the government of Kerala is building up a museum to preserve this divine ancient art form in Kannur.
Reportedly, the foundation laying ceremony of the museum will be organised on February 28, 2019. Precisely, the museum will be established at Chanthappura in Kalyassery area of Kannur.

Theyyam is a ritual art form used in Kerala to retell great stories using art forms. It originated in North Kerala and features dance, music and mime. It glorifies the beliefs of the ancient tribals who believed in the worship of legendary persons and the spirits of the ancestors. About more than 400 distinct Theyyams exist each having its own style, music and choreography.
In a Theyyam performance, every artist portrays a hero with enormous power. Artists adorn themselves with heavy make-up and elaborate costumes. They wear majestic headgear and ornaments to amaze the viewers. Theyyam performances are held from December to April months in temples of Kasargod and Kannur. There are other places like Nileswaram, Ezhom, Kurumathoor, Karivalloor, Cherukunnu and Kunnathoorpadi in North Malabar where Theyyams are held every year, and people attend it in large numbers.

The museum is meant to spread the art form and promote further research work on the origin, growth and its existence. Minister Kadannappally Ramachandran will put the foundation stone of the museum, and the programme will also comprise a drama performance as well as a folk dance.