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‘Aadhi Vedan’ Kerala’s Monsoon Theyyam

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Divine Dance in the Monsoon:  

The first drops of monsoon kissed Kerala with a gentle caress, awakening the land from its summer slumber. In the heart of this rejuvenating embrace, the villages of North Kerala are prepared for their annual symphony of spirit, the Aadi Vedan.

Casting long shadows on the wet earth, the village came alive with the rhythm of drums. Theyyam artists, adorned in resplendent costumes, emerged from their homes, their faces a mesmerising blend of colours and mystique. Lord Shiva, Parvathi, and Galinja (Arjuna)- the divine trinity – were about to embark on their annual pilgrimage through the village.

Clad in elaborate costumes and with faces painted in intricate designs, Theyyam artists traverse the rain-soaked landscape. Their presence in each household is considered a blessing. This sacred dance is more than a performance; it’s a communion with the divine, a ritual of purification, and a celebration of community.

Emerging from marginalised communities, Aadhi Vedan holds particular significance for the people of North Kerala. The tradition passed down through generations is a bulwark against adversity. It is a time for spiritual renewal, for seeking blessings, and for reaffirming the bonds that unite the community.

Through the lens of this photo feature, Satheeshan K  captures the moments of Aadi Vedan. From the meticulous preparations of artists to the awe-inspiring performances that captivate hearts, the essence of a tradition continues to thrive in the heart of the villages in northern Kerala during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (mid-July to mid-August).

Sreeraj, an 8th-standard student, is preparing with the Mukhathezhuth (face writings) by his father, Raju Kalepady, for a Galinja (Lord Arjuna) Theyyam at their home in Kundamkuzhy, Kasaragod district. In the Adhi Vedan tradition, only children, both boys and girls, are permitted to perform, while experienced elders can guide the team with their deep knowledge of Theyyam artistry.
Vellachi (68), a proud member of the Kopalar community, shares a tender moment with her grandson, Sreeraj, adorned as Galinja Theyyam. Their family’s deep-rooted tradition in Theyyam performance is evident, with multiple family members holding the prestigious title of ‘Kalepadi’. They prepare to embark on a day-long Theyyam journey from their home in Kundamkuzhy, Kasaragod district.
Sreerag, a 21-year-old Theyyam artist from nearby Kannur, plays Vedan (Shiva) during the Adi Vedan Theyyam at Bedadukka in Kasaragod. A valuable asset to the community, Sreerag fills the void during artist shortages, ensuring the continuity of this ancient tradition.
Sreerag takes on the role of Vedan, while Purushothaman Panikkar’s rhythmic thottam fills the background. This combined performance exemplifies the essence of Adi Vedan. The Theyyam commences with united performances by all three deities (Lord Shiva, Parvathy, and Arjuna) by visiting temples and significant households of all three Theyyams together. Subsequent days allow individual Theyyams to independently grace different locations, honouring their respective communities.
Again, witness the divine spectacle of these ancient rituals, which offer blessings for safety and prosperity through their enchanting performances.
This is a moment of peace for the divine trio Lord Shiva, Parvathy, and Galinja (Lord Arjuna).The Theyyam deities rest after blessing at a home in Bedira, Kasaragod. Their visit is part of the annual Adi Vedan festival, celebrated in Kerala during Karkkidakam (mid-July to mid-August), where they bless every household in the locality.
As the act is believed to expel illness, a woman performs a purification ritual by pouring ‘holy water’ into a home during the Theyyam’s visit. It’s customary to light a lamp, sing Tottam (devotional songs), and welcome the Theyyam. The belief is that after the ritual, the ’empty cross water’ flowing southward will take away the ailments from the household.
Theyyams, shielded by umbrellas, navigate the rain-soaked roads to reach every household during the Adi Vedan at a village in Kasaragod. Despite heavy showers, the performers’ dedication shines through.
A young Greeshmith ES (9 years) with Galinja Theyyam, often identified with Lord Arjuna, takes a scenic route through paddy fields near Kundamkuzhy. One Theyyam group covers a remarkable 60-70 houses daily during the arduous Adi Vedan Theyyam days.
Another group of Adi Vedan team walks through the villages near Kundamkuzhy, Kasaragod.
A moment of tranquillity amidst the divine fervour. Artists adorned as Lord Shiva and Parvati, participants in the Adi Vedan Theyyam, find respite during their journey at the revered Sree Panchalingeshwara Temple in Kundamkuzhy, Kasaragod.
The artists having their lunch at a home near Bedira Palace in Kundamkuzhy. It’s an integral part of the tradition that certain households with higher social standing provide food and shelter to the troops as they traverse the region. This ancient custom ensures the sustenance of these dedicated artists during their arduous journey.
A vibrant tableau unfolds as a group of young, aspiring Theyyam artists, Akash, Sreeraj, and Sreejesh Kolathur, pose during their day-long journey of Theyyams. Their presence in each household is considered a blessing. The rhythmic chants fill the air, creating a harmonious blend of devotion and earthly rhythms.
Clad in the traditional attire of Adi Vedan, Theyyam artists Ratheesh and Nijil Kurumathur, beautifully adorned as Lord Shiva and Parvathy and wait for their turn to perform during the Rhythmic chants and vibrant colours of Adi Vedan Theyyam.
A radiant smile lights up the face of an older woman as the Theyyam leaves her home near Bedadukka.

Copyeditor: Prem Shankar

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I am Satheeshan Karicheri, Previously I served as a Chief Photographer at The Times of India and bring over 20 years of invaluable experience in photo/video journalism with various news organizations across India, Including New Delhi and Mumbai. Currently working as a video stringer with the district Information office at Kasaragod in Kerala.

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