Theyyem
The Keralan ritual dances known as theyyem are held for many reasons: to celebrate the safe return of a son from the Gulf, the construction of a new house or as part of a temple feast. The bodies of performers are believed to be possessed by the deities themselves; as the god or goddess moves among the crowd, its spirit glares through the performer’s bloodshot eyes, animating his every gesture.
TAGS: Kerala / India / Asia / Belief