Citation :

Anjana K C, Pallavi Ashokrao Charate, 2025. "Negotiating the Suppression of Identity and Survival in the Heroes of Theyyam" ESP International Journal of Science, Humanities & Management Studies(ESP-IJSHMS)  Volume 3, Issue 1: 19-23.

Abstract :

Theyyam is an inevitable part of the cultural facets of Northern Kerala. The myths and legends of various Theyyams presented in the thottam songs reflect the social circumstances itself. What we see in Theyyam is a special bond between God and devotee, where the devotee could physically express his/her concerns to the God who patiently listens to these worries. Theyyam is also treated as a platform to commemorate the ancestors who sacrificed themselves for various causes. They are elevated into a spiritual level which also bestows a heroic aura to those who were once marginalized just for being born into a different community. This paper focuses upon the depiction of identity and struggle in five different male deities of Theyyam. All of them lived their earthly lives facing a series of trials and tribulations which ultimately resulted in death or disappearance. A close analysis would unveil the layers of social fabric presented in these myths.

References :

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Keywords :

Caste Discrimination, Identity, Struggle, Theyyam.