Patayani Pattu - Songs

Songs of Patayani

Patayani is a week-long ritual dance held in Kaali temples along 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 goddess Kaali. The steps and movements of the dance vary according to each Kolam or character. Thappu (a percussion instrument) is the main accompaniment supported by a few Chendas.

Usually performed by the Nair community as a ritual offering the village astrologer prepares the masks of the gods. Bhairavi (Bhadrakaali), Yakshi, Pakshi (bird) and Kaalari (Siva) are the main characters. Various communities targetted for criticism are represented by jesters. The music involves an invocation of the Goddess Bhadrakaali to bless the people and forgive their mistakes.

Kadammanitta, Kadalimangalam, Neelamperur and Othara in Pathanamthitta are famous for annual Patayani performances.