Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Theyyam Dance, Its unique features
Mains level: NA
In the news
- This newscard is an excerpt from an image published in today’s edition of TH.
About Theyyam
- Theyyam is a traditional ritualistic performance art form native to the northern region of Kerala.
- It is believed to have evolved over centuries, combining elements of music, dance, and drama to honor various Hindu deities, especially Goddess Kali.
Key Features
- Unique format: Theyyam performances take place at village shrines or in joint-family homes rather than on stages.
- Lengthy duration: Performances can span from 12 to 24 hours, reflecting their importance within the community.
- Ritual: The chief dancers live near the shrine during the entire event and do not eat after sunset.
- Masks and costumes: Various types of masks and face paints are used, characterized by vibrant colors.
- Musical accompaniment: Traditional Kerala instruments like chenda (drum), tuti (flute), kuzhal (wind instrument), and veekni (percussion instrument) support the dancers.
- Dance steps: Specific dance steps called “Kalaasams” follow a structured sequence.
- Religious influence: Certain aspects of Theyyam, such as abstaining from eating after sunset, indicate religious influences from Jainism and Buddhism.
Try this PYQ from CSP 2017:
Q. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements:
- It is a song and dance performance.
- Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
- It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1, 2 and 3
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1 only
Post your answers here.
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