Thiyyattu is a traditional ritual art form typical to
Kerala. It is a devotional offering to
Goddess Kali and
Lord Ayyappa. The performance usually starts at dusk in a specially decorated ‘pandal’, before the
Kalam,
Nilavilakku and peetam (stool).
Thiyyattu is performed by only by a set of performers known as ‘Thiyyattunnis’. The main subject of the dance is the killing of Daraka by Goddess Kali. The dancer embellished in the costume and make-up of Goddess Kali with special head gears, pleated skirts and painted face dances before the Kalam.
Thiyyattu is accompanied with the rhythmic music of Chenda, Ilathalam and Chengila.
