Homestay is everything between a guesthouse and a small hotel. Homestays offer a homely feeling that hotels cannot offer and the comfort you experience here is a likeness of the hospitality of its host. Homestay owners often provide value-added services like meals, transportation and guides. Chandralayam Homestay not only offers its guests comfortable accommodation but also gives them an opportunity to delve into the cultural heritage of Kasargod. During your stay at Chandralayam Homestay, you can witness the incredible cultural phenomenon in the form of ritual dance called, “Theyyam”. Book rooms for you and your family in Chandralayam Homestay anytime between November to April to watch Theyyam performances.
Unveiling the mystique of Theyyam: November to April is a special time in North Kerala when this ritualistic art form comes to life with ardent fervor and passion. Temples are marked with a flurry of Theyyam performances with devotees and tourists flocking to witness them. Theyyam is a traditional ritualistic dance form that originated in North Kerala, deeply rooted in its folklore and spirituality. Theyyam performers are called “Theyyakolams”. They undergo elaborate and intricate transformations to embody the deity or spirit of the Gods that they represent. It is believed that divine and ancestral spirits come to life through vibrant rituals and mesmerizing performances. The Theyyam costumes play a vital role in transforming performers into deities and spirits, creating a visual spectacle sure to leave the spectators in awe.
The artistry of Theyyam costumes: Theyyam costumes bear a testament to the rich cultural heritage of North Kerala. Each costume is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, painstakingly created by skilled craftsman who have inherited the tradition through generations.
Here are some key elements that make up the Theyyam costume:
Headgear: Also known as “Mudi”, the headgear is towering and elaborate. It is adorned with intricate designs, mirrors and peacock feathers.
Colorful Attire: The costumes are a riot of colors, with vibrant fabrics and intricate patterns. These colors hold deep symbolism – red symbolizes power, yellow prosperity and white purity, among others.
Ornate Jewelry: Necklaces, bangles and anklets made of metals, beads and stones contribute to the overall regal appearance of the Theyyakolams.
Face Paint: The transformation into a deity is incomplete without elaborate face paint. Natural colors made from turmeric, rice powder and other locally sourced material is used. The patterns of the painting vary depending on the deity being represented.
Bells and Anklets: The rhythmic sound if the bells and anklets add a musical dimension to the Theyyam performance, enhancing its hypnotic quality and otherworldly ambiance.
The significance of Theyyam performances: Theyyam performances hold profound significance for the communities in North Kerala. They are not just cultural spectacles but scared ceremonies. It is believed to fulfill various purposes that include:
Spiritual Healing: It is believed that witnessing a Theyyam performance can cleanse ones soul and bring good fortune.
Ancestral Worship: Theyyam performances are dedicated to ancestral spirits allowing families to pay homage and seek guidance and protection from their forbearers.
Community Bonding: Theyyam performances foster a sense of community and unity. People come together to participate and organize the ritual thereby strengthening their bonds.
Preservation of Tradition: Theyyam performances are a testament to Kerala’s cultural heritage and spiritual depth. Tradition and spirituality converge into a mesmerizing dance of devotion in a Theyyam performance.
Chandralayam Homestay, the best homestay in Kasargod, can give you the best in terms of accommodation, food and guidance during your stay. Witnessing the Theyyam performances during your stay here is a sure shot do-not-miss activity. Book your stay at Chandralayam Homestay and experience the magic of enchantment.
