Theyyam refers to a folk religious ritual in Kerala, India, and to the dancer from that ritual, as in the figure above. Theyyam is closely related to Bhutaradhane (Animistic worship) from Coastal Karnataka.

Theyyam is the medium for the deities (Saiva, Sakti, Vaishnavite, and others). The headgear, makeup, and attire identify the deity Theyyam represents. These days, the Theyyam ritual of worshipping Goddess Bhagavati is widely practised.

This figure above is static, but in the actual event, the dancer is a very dynamic figure. The dance is to the tune of songs, drums, and clarinet and may be accompanied by subordinate Theyyams. The songs, known as Tottams, carry philosophical meanings. Theyyam has closer ties to the traditional Hindu religion compared to its counterpart, Bhutaradhane.

One feature I want to highlight is the anklets. The anklets are one of the key ornaments of the ritual. This blogsite has an article of such an anklet.

In this example, the Theyyam is holding a sword and shield. The decorative band on his waist is Ani.  This figure is about 16 cm in height and it is from Kerala. It may not date earlier than the nineteenth century.

It is the custom to melt damaged and worn-out figures to make new ones and not sell them. Hence the Theyyam antique figures are rarer.