Photographs by Rosemary

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The Theyyam is a tradition handed down in certain families where the men are priveledged to be inhabited by a Hindu goddess. Since the villages pay the Theyyam when he performs he can, in my mind, be equated with a traveling revival preacher.The fierce face of a Theyyam looms out of the darknessHis performance over, this Theyyam has his costume removed. Although he is no longer inhabited by the goddess, he proves to be a god in his own right.Each Theyyam has his own costume although they do seem to have certain prescribed categories. Village men prepare the parts of the costume made from palm fronds and flowers.The Theyyams are made up by local artists before the ceremony.The 'peacock' Theyyam twirls in the temple courtyard as part of his performance.Close up of Theyyam wearing a breast plate with female characteristics. There was no acting in a feminine manner but it seems that this costume is a reminder of the true divinity...the goddess.His make up complete, he waits for his costume.The palm frond skirt is secured in placeWearing his two layered palm frond skirt and the upper costume that prevents him from lowering his arms the Theyyam begins his procession around the temple courtyard.This was the first Theyyam we photographed and he radiated gentleness.The Theyyam speak to the faithful, answering their questions and offering advice.Carrying the large and unweildy headress in the heat was not easy.The ceremonies continued into the night. Food was served to the 'parishioners' and to us. I tasted a rice pudding made with jaggery, a kind of brown sugar. Good.This Theyyam disregarded us and turned his face away in a disapproving manner. Was it just me?His arms restricted by his costume, his face bathed is sweat from the heat and humidity, the Theyyam answers all questions and petitions. Each petitioner was given an open coconut dosed with something that looked like turmeric. After taking a sip, the coconut was pitched over the head. Luckily, a man warned me that there were incoming coconuts.Theyyam twirls with weapons raised as drummers beat an earsplitting rhythm.Close up ala Eric
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The Theyyam is a tradition handed down in certain families where the men are priveledged to be inhabited by a Hindu goddess. Since the villages pay the Theyyam when he performs he can, in my mind, be equated with a traveling revival preacher.



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