Sangha Kali is also known as Sastrakali, Chathirakali or Vatrakali. Essentially a socio-religious dance which was a very favourite and popular pastime of Namboodiris, it was performed as a votive offering. The origin of Sanghakali may be traced to the numerous gymnasia (Known as Kalaris) in ancient Kerala where physical exercises and military training with special stress on physical feats and swordsmanship were given. Periodic celebrations were held in this Kalaris with special displays of skill in weapons and the techniques of combat. With the infiltration and stabilization of Aryan culture in the land, the Namboodiri Brahmins-the Aryan immigrants-entered these gymnasia and their participation and influence gave the celebrations a religious turn. " ARTISTS

People from the communities such as Vannan, Malayan, Mavilan, Velan, Koppalan, Pulayan etc. are the people who are performing Theyyams. Also it is an accepted rule that these communities will perform certain Theyyams on which they have the authority to perform. No community will perform the Theyyams for which other community has got the right.

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