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