The Theyyam festival is a sacred and ancient ritual art form originating from Kerala, India, where a performer, known as a kolam, embodies a deity in a trance-like state through energetic dance and intricate makeup. This ritual is a vital part of local religious festivals, believed to bring prosperity and remove hazards for the community. Occurring between October and April, Theyyam performances are not mere spectacles but deeply rooted expressions of community faith and ancient history, a unique blend of theatre, mime, and worship.
Kolkata, India