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Theyyam is a ritual dance form, and one of the oldest forms of dances. Theyyam is associated with the cult of Goddess
Bhagawati, glorifying the Goddess. The themes of these dances revolve around the triumph of the Goddess over the evil characters like the demon DARIKA (DARIKASURAN). Theyyam is always performed by men and they are often costumed as women in exotic make-up. The men performing the dance wear masks and elaborate costumes. The head - dress made of palm leaves and cloth can at times rise well over forty feet in height. The dancer moves to the rhythm of 'Chenda' (drum) and when the dance picks up momentum, he casts a spell on the spectators, often in a religious way.
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