Welcome to Kannur- the land of Theyyam

Aug. 13, 2010 - PRLog -- Kannur, located at North Kerala is rich in history, culture, tradition and arts, and offers a truly different experience altogether. Though the  conventional Kerala tourists mainly focus on the popular beaches like Varkala and Kovalam and hill stations like Thekkady and Munnar, there are many hidden treasures like Kannur and Kasargod that hold the true Kerala charm close to the bosom!  Now many tour planners have come up with packages and tour plans that enable the tourists to explore the mystical charm and the unseen splendour of Malabar. From the majestic charm of the Bekal fort and Chandragiri forts to the adventure sporting options and outdoor fun, these places have many unique attractions that not many destinations can flaunt. Home to the most popular ritualistic art form of Kerala, The Theyyam and the mystical temple and folk art forms have imparted an intriguing beauty to Kannur and its suburbs.

There are over 450 different types Theyyams, each with distinct costumes, make up and accessories. Intricately crafted and ornate some of the Theyyam masks can measure upto several feet in height. The best part is that Theyyam performances incorporate both Hindu and Muslim religious themes and character and are the best expressions of the secular society of Kerala.

The performer undergoes abstinence , fasting and mediation before taking up the Theyyam.  During the performance, the performer attains divine identity and  speaks  and blesses the devotees as if he were the deity. The frenzied dancing, high pitched drum beats add up  to the ethereal milieu and to watch this astonishing performance , scores of tourists and locals assemble at the grounds. Normally associated with temple festivals, the theyyam season spans from  October to May, during which time there will be an annual ritual at each kavu. Thought to bring in prosperity and good fortune, Theyyams are inseparable parts of the culture of Malabar.  In case you fancy something extra ordinary in your Kerala holiday, charter your trip to Kannur the land of Theyyams!

Mr. Venu K Nair, the marketing head of Karma Kerala, told us “ We have been promoting a lot of new packages and tourist options  at affordable prices to Kannur for the benefit of tourists who wish to experience something different. With many star hotels coming up in Kannur and its surroundings, the  tourism prospects of kannur is likely to increase manifold in the coming days” he concluded. More information on the various hotels and tourist deals in Kannur can be had from  http://www.karmakerala.com/
Karma Kerala  is one of the leading tour promoters in South India. Based in Cochin, it has  It  has sales counters in Edinburgh and UK to handle holiday plans of both foreign and domestic tourists..