Thursday, November 13, 2014

Karkkidaka theyyam performed by Nellikkat Rajan Panikkar & Party . Kanhangad




Aadivedan is an ancient folk art prevalent in certain areas of Kannur district. Aadi and Vedan represent Parvathy and siva. All the characters who enact these two roles normally belong to two different communities - Malayan and Vannan. It is performed during day time.  Prevalent in certain areas of Kannur and kasragod districts, Aadivedan is an ancient folk art that represents one third of
Kunhi Theyyam. Aadi and Vedan represent Parvathy and Shiva respectively. Thus, Aadivedan is supposed to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva in a form of hunter otherwise called Kirathamoorthy. He visits with a bell in hand in each household and dances to dispel evil forces and shower blessings. The matriarch of the house is directed by him to perform Kuruthi (blood sacrifice). The stuff for Kuruthi is made by mixing turmeric powder and calcium carbonate in water. The evil spirits supposedly are thirsty for blood and the concoction looks like blood. The Kuruthi and a burning wick are thrown away from the courtyard and the Aadivedan leaves the premises after receiving Dakshina (voluntary compensation in cash or kind).

If it is monsoon, it is also the turn of Karkidakatheyyams in North Malabar region. However, even if Mother Nature keeps the monsoon at bay, the Karkidakatheyyams start parading the villages during the period. 

Every year, during the particular season, this traditional ritualistic dance form is performed in the villages of North Malabar. The performances, which are unique to the region, extend upto the end of the monsoon season.

The 'theyyattams' are held to keep the evil spirits away and shower prosperity during 'karkidakam' which is considered to be an ominous month. With the onset of 'karkidakam',  It is the  Karkkidaka theyyam performed by Nellikkat Rajan Panikkar &Party that begins the custom, only to be followed up by Aadi and Vedan theyyams. 

The performance of the theyyam,  begins by praising Ganesha, the God of prosperity in the accompaniment of 'chendamelam'. The 'karkidakatheyyam' usually conceive the stories from 'Kiraatham' and Galinjan theyyam epitomises Arjuna while Aadi and Vedan theyyams symbolises Goddess Parvathi. 

These 'karkidakatheyyams' are believed to bring happiness and prosperity and in effect it works out as a soothing balm to the vexed souls.

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