Patayani is a week-long ritual dance, held in Kaali temples on the banks of the Pamba river, during the Malayalam months of Meenam and Medam (March-April).
The choice theme of the dancers is the slaying of the demon Daarikan by the goddess Kaali.
The steps and movements of the dance vary according to each 'Kolam' or character.
Thappu is the major percussion instrument accompanied by a few 'Chendas'. Patayani is usually performed by the Nair community, as a ritual offering.
Performed By
The Men of Nair Community
Accompanying Instruments
Thappu, Chendas
Dance Style
Traditionally, the village astrologer prepares the masks of the gods. Patayani masks are made with the fresh spathe of arecanut palms. 'Bhairavi' (Bhadrakaali), 'Yakshi', 'Pakshi' (Bird) and 'Kaalari' (Siva) are the main characters.
Various communities targetted for criticism are represented by jesters. 'Kadammanitta', 'Kadalimangalam' and 'Othara' are famous for annual Patayani performances.
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