Pottan theyyam #theyyam #kerala #tulunadu #theyyamkerala

Pottan Theyyam, also known as Pottan Theyyam or Pottan Teyyam, is a ritualistic folk performance art form from Kerala, India. It is one of the many forms of Theyyam, which is a popular ritualistic dance worship practiced predominantly in the northern part of Kerala. Each Theyyam represents a deity or hero and is performed by members of specific communities, usually to invoke divine blessings or ward off evil.

### Story of Pottan Theyyam

The story of Pottan Theyyam is a powerful narrative centered on social justice, equality, and the fight against caste discrimination. Pottan Theyyam represents the deity Shiva, who, according to the legend, took on the guise of an outcaste or an untouchable to teach a lesson about the importance of humility and the futility of caste discrimination.

#### Key Elements of the Story:

1. **Shiva’s Disguise**:
In the story, Lord Shiva, deeply disturbed by the caste-based discrimination prevalent in society, decides to teach people a lesson. He disguises himself as an outcaste (Pottan) and begins wandering through the villages.

2. **Encounter with a Brahmin**:
In his journey, Pottan Theyyam encounters a proud and arrogant Brahmin who looks down upon him because of his assumed low caste. The Brahmin refuses to recognize the divine essence within Pottan and treats him with disdain.

3. **Revelation**:
As the Brahmin continues to insult and mistreat Pottan, Shiva reveals his true identity. The Brahmin is humbled and realizes the error of his ways. The story highlights that divinity exists in every being, regardless of caste or status.

4. **Moral Message**:
The story of Pottan Theyyam serves as a strong critique of the rigid caste system and social inequality. It emphasizes the values of humility, respect for all human beings, and the inherent divinity in every person, regardless of their social standing.

#### Ritualistic Performance

During the Theyyam performance, the performer, who often belongs to lower caste communities, dons elaborate costumes and makeup, embodying the divine spirit of Pottan Theyyam. The performance includes ritualistic dances, recitation of the mythological story, and interaction with the audience, often delivering messages of social reform and equality. The performance is deeply spiritual, believed to invoke the presence of the deity, and serves as a medium for social commentary and justice.

Pottan Theyyam remains a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression and continues to resonate with people, reminding them of the need for equality and justice in society.