Padayani, the ritual art form of Bhadrakali temples

Padayani (patayani) is a form of ritual dance in Kerala, South India especially performed as an offering to Goddess Bhadrakali. The highlight of the padayani ritual dance is its costume. The huge and elaborate headgear used by the performers are called the kolam and the characters of the dance are identified by the kolam they wear, known variously as Yakshi, Pakshi, Kuthira, Kalari, Gandharvan, Maadan etc.