Thiyyattu

A devotional offering performed in Bhadrakali temples. A set of performers known as Thiyyattunnis alone are entitled to perform it. The theme is usually the king of the Darika by Bhadrakali. The Unnis first draw the picture of Bhadrakali (called Kalam) on the floor, with a five different types of colour powers. A decorated stool called Peedhom is placed in front, facing a traditional oil - lit lamp. Then the dancer in the costume and make - up pf Bhagavathy with special head gears, pleated skirts and painted face dances before the Kalam, to the accompaniment of devotional songs. A small sized chenda, thimila and kaimani are the instruments used. Sometimes Thiyattu is performed before the deity Ayyappan by a set of people known as Nampis. In the Ayappan Thiyyattu the make up and costume of the dancer is that of Nandikeswara.

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