Don tilts at windmills in Kerala, propped up by Kalari and Theyyam

Kalaripayattu

• Kalaripayattu is a martial art based on the ancient knowledge of the human body.

• It originated in Kerala during 3nd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It is now practised in Kerala and in some parts of Tamil Nadu.

• The place where this martial art is practised is called a 'Kalari'. It is a Malayalam word that signifies a kind of gymnasium. Kalari literally means 'threshing floor' or 'battlefield'. The word Kalari first appears in the Tamil Sangam literature to describe both a battlefield and combat arena.

• It is considered to be one of the oldest fighting systems in existence.

• It is also considered as the father of modern Kung - Fu.

Theyyam

• Theyyam, also referred to as Kaliyattom, is a traditional folk-dance ritual that is practiced in northern Kerala and certain parts of Karnataka.

• A similar practice known as Bhuta Kola is followed in the Tulunadu region of neighbouring Karnataka.

• Over time, it has evolved into a socio-religious ceremony with its roots in the worship of divinities and heroes.

• Villages were obligated to organize Theyyam as an act of appeasement towards gods, goddesses, and the spirits of departed heroes. As a result, it was also known as Thirayattom, signifying the dance of the village.

• Notably, a significant number of Theyyam deities originated from individuals belonging to the lower castes of Kerala's caste system.

• Theyyam is performed by individuals from castes and tribes such as Pulayar, Vannan, Malayan, Velan, and Kalanaadi.