Gulikan Theyyam
Emanating from the depths of Dravidian folklore, Gulikan Theyyam serves as a guardian deity with multiple facets. Often viewed as a celestial enforcer, Gulikan’s performances are usually set after midnight, holding the community in awe until the early hours. A striking aspect is that Gulikan has different moods, which are portrayed during the performance, adding complexity and layers to the deity’s persona.
The face is predominantly painted in black, reflecting the deity’s mysterious and nocturnal nature. An immense headgear made from areca nut palm leaves sets it apart, emphasising its awe-inducing presence. This headgear is not merely ornamental but deeply symbolic, representing Yama, the Hindu God of Death.
Gulikan is believed to have been born from the left toe of Lord Shiva, adding a mischievous twist to the celestial narrative. Fire dances are the highlight of Gulikan Theyyam performances. The performer dances holding a lit lamp or around an open fire. This visual spectacle is not just about aesthetics but also serves to deepen the spiritual experience, often depicting scenes of divine retribution or justice.
Originating from Lord Shiva’s third eye, Gulikan is considered a guardian of the spiritual world. He stands as an intermediary between the realms of humans and snakes. Villagers often invoke his protection for safeguarding against snake bites and to ensure the fertility of their lands. He is often considered a deity of justice, with prayers and offerings made to him in disputes and conflicts, seeking a fair resolution.
The face is predominantly painted in black, reflecting the deity’s mysterious and nocturnal nature. An immense headgear made from areca nut palm leaves sets it apart, emphasising its awe-inducing presence. This headgear is not merely ornamental but deeply symbolic, representing Yama, the Hindu God of Death.
The performance starts with the recitation of prayers believed to neutralise poisons. The artist then goes into a ritual dance, a physical retelling of Gulikan’s creation and his role in the cosmic order. What sets this Theyyam apart is the offering of eggs during the performance, which ties back to the serpent world that Gulikan guards.
What makes Gulikan Theyyam unique is its deep-rooted connection to the natural world. Beyond its mythological basis, it is considered an ecological protector, and its performance often coincides with agricultural cycles. This adds an extra layer of meaning, tying the spiritual and the ecological into a seamless whole.