Kerala is well known for its impressive and colourful ceremonies and traditions. Ottamthullal (or Ottanthullal, Malayalam: ഓട്ടന് തുള്ളല്, pronounced [oːʈːamt̪uɭːal]), is an ancient art form from Kerala. It was introduced in the 18th century by Kunchan Nambiar, one of the Prachina Kavithrayam (three famous Malayalam language poets). It is accompanied by a mridangam or an idakka (drum and cymbal). This tradition should not be confused with the famous Kathakali. Here a young masked and disguised man performs a traditional dance accompanied by music and texts recited in a humorous way interacting directly with the public. The ceremony continues into the night with an impressive torchlight procession through the village. You can get a glimpse of it by looking at the pictures and video of this impressive show.
Theyyam (Teyyam, Theyyattam or Thira) (Malayalam:തെയ്യം) is a popular ritual form from Northern Malabar, Kerala. If you have never heard of it, be sure to visit Wayanad and discover this colourful and holy tradition.