- Region
- Kerala
- Best time to see
- Onam (August–September) and the cooler months
- Main forms
- Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kathakali, Pulikali
Theyyam
Theyyam is a ritual performance in which the dancer, after hours of make-up and costume, is believed to become the deity for the duration of the rite. Faces are painted in bold reds and yellows, headdresses can be enormous, and the movements are forceful, driven by drums. Devotees approach the performer for blessings. It is mostly seen at village shrines in north Kerala during the cooler months.
Thiruvathirakali
This is a dance for women, performed in a circle around a lit lamp. Dancers in cream-and-gold Kerala saris move gently while clapping in rhythm and singing. The songs recall Shiva and Parvati, and the dance is a familiar sight during Onam and the Thiruvathira festival. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and grace.
Kathakali
Kathakali is a classical dance-drama, but it draws heavily on older folk and ritual traditions. Actors in green, red and black facial make-up and huge skirts tell stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata through hand gestures and very expressive eye and face work, with singers and drummers supplying the narrative. Training takes many years. Short performances for visitors are held in Kochi and other tourist centres, and full-night shows take place at temple festivals.
Pulikali
In Pulikali, or the tiger dance, men paint their bodies with tiger stripes and spots and dance through the streets to the beat of drums. It is closely tied to Onam, and Thrissur hosts the best-known procession on the fourth day of the festival.
Seeing a performance
Ask locally about temple festival calendars, since dates follow the Malayalam calendar and change every year. Dress modestly, stay back from ritual spaces unless invited, and ask before taking photos of performers. We can plan Kerala trips around Onam or the Theyyam season and book seats at a Kathakali show.
- Theyyam: north Kerala village shrines, cooler months
- Thiruvathirakali: Onam and Thiruvathira
- Kathakali: Kochi cultural centres, temple festivals
- Pulikali: Thrissur during Onam
Plan it with us
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. We will build the route, book the car, driver and hotels, and send you a clear quote.
