MUTTUPAN THEYYAM:

Throughout the first two weeks of the Theyyam season, many sacred groves throughout Kerala perform Muttupan Theyyam. This theyyam recounts the life and highlights of Shri Muttupan, incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the son of Lord Shiva. Shri Muttupan is intensely worshipped in the district of Kannur where he is thought to reign supreme. We were very fortunate to see Muttupan Theyyam performed at Kunnattur Paadi, the grove where this theyyam is supposed to have originated.

The grove is a thick and abundant forest containing many large trees with high canopies, and twisting vines that fall to the earth. One area is kept clear however, where a small cave can be found. Inside the cave is a divine stone, which is worshiped daily by the priests of Muttupan's temple on the edge of the forest.

On the western side of the cave is a stone bench and a high seat made out of mud, which is where some of the rituals take place. Daily rituals are performed here for Lord Muttupan. There are also highlighted days throughout the year for celebration and offering. Tiruvutsavam (grand festival) is the most well known and longest event at the kavu (sacred grove). It starts on the second of Dhanu (around Dec. 15) and lasts for one month till the second of Makaram (Jan 15). During this time, various people assume the role of Lord Muttupan.

We were able to see one day of this long ritual, which should be kept in mind when viewing this material. Everyday something different is done, however, which is important to keep in mind even if it may seem likea minor change.

These performances represent 4 stages of Muttupan's life. The first one, Naaduvaazhissan Deivam is the form of Muttupan as a baby. This form carries with him a bow and arrow as his weapon. The second form, Putiya Muttupan is the god as a young boy. The third form is Purankala Muttuppan. The fourth stage is known as Tiruvappana, and is the serious form of Muttuppan, in which he is wearing a black moustach and beard as well as false silver eyes.

Toddy (coconut liquor) is unique to this theyyam because most do not use any intoxicants. It’s also significant that the tribesmen, the Adiyars, are the only ones allowed to touch Muttupan at first. Their family and fellow tribesmen are the only ones who hold these rights.

We suggest first reading the myth of Shri Muttupan before seeing the ritual. The pictures of the Komaram first, and then Muttupan can be seen by clicking on the arrows. If, for example, you would rather go straight to Muttupan, then click in the highlighted words "Muttupan" below the arrows. Video clips can be found in the Ritual section.