Kathivanoor Veeran

Details of theyyam

Mandappan Chekavar, later revered as Kathivanoor Veeran, hailed from the affluent Kumarachan family in Mangad Methaliyillam. Born under the blessings of goddess Chuzali in present-day Mangad, Kannur, Mandappan had a martial spirit, aspiring to be a warrior. His skills in martial arts were evident, but his penchant for hunting deer and quail in the woods with friends became a source of contention within his family. Despite his father Kumarachan's disapproval and the breaking of Mandappan's bow in anger, the young warrior ventured out. Joining friends bound for business in the Kodagu hills, he was left alone after being intoxicated. Wandering, he eventually found solace at his uncle's house in Kathivanoor, acquiring half of the property over time. Upon his aunt's advice, Mandappan began an oil business and married Velarkot Chemmarathi. Domestic disputes arose, culminating in an unfortunate altercation where Chemmarathi cursed Mandappan for his tardiness. When news of an impending attack from Kodagu reached Mandappan, he took up arms, saluted deities, and engaged in a fierce battle. Although victorious, he discovered the loss of his pedestal ring and little finger on his way back home. Despite friends' warnings, Mandappan returned to the battlefield to reclaim them, only to be deceitfully killed by the defeated Kodagu soldiers. Chemmarathi, waiting for Mandappan, witnessed his remains and committed suicide by leaping into his pyre. When Mandappan's uncle and son Annukkan returned after the funerals, they found the couple transformed into gods. The first performance of Mandappan Chekavar's Theyyam occurred in the presence of his uncle, who named it Kathivanoor Veeran. This mythological narrative is the foundation of the Kathivanoor Veeran Theyyam. Known for its dynamic movements, this ritual is typically conducted at night. The performance space, called Chemmarathi thara, is crafted with banana leaves, multi-colored dyes, and fire, symbolizing Mandappan's wife Chemmarathi. The sixty-four cells represent the treacherous dismemberment of Kathivanoor Veeran's body by the Kodakars. Kathivanoor Veeran is venerated by many, particularly North Malabar girls seeking a healthy spouse. The Theyyam performer must possess proficiency in various subjects, providing correct answers to questions posed by visitors during the ritual, showcasing the depth of knowledge associated with this revered tradition.