Wayanad Kulavan : Fire Based

Details of theyyam

Wayanatt Kulavan stands out among theyyams for its intense and acrobatic performances, where ferocity is expressed in a unique and comical manner. Often accompanied by the consumption of holy toddy, this theyyam is believed to trace its origins back to Lord Shiva and Parvathi taking the form of hunters. Legend has it that Lord Shiva and Parvathi, during their travels through a forest known as Madhuvanam (Madhu meaning Toddy or Alcohol, and Vanam meaning Forest), encountered a peculiar situation. Shiva would drink toddy dripping from the trees, which displeased Parvathi. One day, she played a trick by causing the toddy to flow upward, infuriating Shiva. To fetch the toddy, Shiva created a divine person, tapping on his thigh, who was considered his son. This son, assigned the task of retrieving toddy from the top of the trees, ended up consuming it himself despite warnings from Shiva. In anger, Shiva cursed him to go blind. Equipped with false eyes, the son was sent to Earth to protect the people, descending first in Wayanad, hence named Wayanatt Kulavan. The deity Wayanatt Kulavan, destined to fetch toddy for Lord Shiva, became a revered figure with numerous followers, contributing to the origin of the Theeya caste. The theyyam is typically performed at night, illuminated by torches made from dry coconut leaves (Chootta or Choott). During the initial performance, the torch is thrown along with a silver false eye. The spots where these items land become sacred, and the annual Wayanatt Kulavan theyyam is conducted at these locations. Hunting is a significant element in the Wayanatt Kulavan theyyam performance, adding to the unique and vibrant character of this traditional ritual.