Vellattam of Vettakkorumakan

Vellattam is an invocative ritual held prior to the actual Theyyam performance. Through this ritual, the mortal human being is believed to get transformed into the divine self. It is equivalent to the Thottam ritual but is more colourful and vigorous. In the video, the Vellattam ritual held prior to the Vettakkorumakan Theyyam performance is seen. The venue is Vaniyillam Someswari temple at Kannur.

According to myths, Vettakkorumakan is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There are many local legends, too, related to this fierce deity.

Theyyam is one of the most colourful and visually appealing art forms of Kerala. This ritual art, with some essential tribal elements about it, has won international reputation for its unique artistic as well as cultural aspects.