It is impossible to talk about people without leaving the sociological interpretation that people live by beliefs. Accordingly, customs and various cultural aspects, beliefs and religious traditions, clothing and everything else vary from country to country and from people to people . It is widely believed that maintaining world peace is not difficult if this tradition is properly understood. If there is respect instead of criticism, the bonds between groups of people become stronger, and the continuity of world existence is affirmed.
This means to discuss about a special ritual that is said to have existed even before Hinduism. This tradition in India is known as “Theiyam”. This tradition which is considered to be an ancient and mystical folk ritual is of a more unique nature.
“Theiyam” can be considered as one of the most unique cultural aspects of religious festivals in India where 330 million Hindu deities are worshipped. This cultural festival, which is held in several parts of the state of Kerala and the neighboring state of Karnataka, is a belief that has existed since before the beginning of Hinduism. It is a recognized ritual with drama and imagery involving Hindu mythology.
From October to April, night and morning are separated due to these cultural elements. Indian reports show that this festival will be held in about 400 areas including Kerala. The auspicious time for the festival is decided by the astrologers. The purpose of this culture is to give sacredness and a greater meaning to the society.
Organization of these festivals can be observed in rural temples. A prominent feature here is attractively dressed models with geometric face patterns as well as different designs of clothing prepared for it. The speciality of Theiyam dances is that the faces are different like masks. Drawing, clothing and jewelry vary from character to character. Theiyam experts have pointed out that traditional dyes are used to make all the designs. A “Kolam” is a particular representation of each Theiyam philosophy. One model artist is selected for that, and he dances to the beat of the drums.
“Theiyam” artists say that “Theiyam” is a unique cultural phenomenon that truly represents the pre-Hindu period of worshipping natural objects. A fundamental aspect of Hinduism is the caste-based social system. The right to appear in Theiyam shows is reserved only for the Dalit caste community. Only men have that opportunity. Dalits are inferior caste and this festival also gives them high recognition in the society through “Theiyam”. It is a sacred state. “Yama” is the Hindu god of death and justice. Here one can also observe those who are possessed and danced looking at the twin avatars of Yama. Theiyam is a patriarchal cultural affair. Therefore, female deities are portrayed by male artists.
Creating the desire to enter into spirituality is another powerful condition represented by this. They use fire for that. Fire also plays a major role in Theiyam. Walking on fire or jumping into fire during the Theiyam dance can be seen as a re-enactment of Hindu mythology.
