Kannur (Cananore)
Theyam
01.03.2008 - 02.03.2008 -17 °C
Our arrival in Kannur proved to be one of those fortunate successes that feel so rare these days. After arriving frazzled and exhausted from another train journey, the thought of rising at 4am in search of the mysterious ritualistic theyam was excruciating. It's as though the mere thought of movement via any sort of public transport in India, creates an extreme form of emotion-sickness.
Kannur had many angels wandering around the dirt, shit-smelling streets waiting to help us. After a few questions we found a theyam that had just started only a few minutes walk away.
A man, face painted red, bells jangling at ankles in time with the beat of six sweating drummers. Speed progressed with swirling time until the divine spirit had entered and people approached one by one for advice, guidance, blessings.
The ceremony is based around the Hindu goddess Kali, who is the destroyer of all things evil. A baby, naked but for the nappy cried terrified protests as it was handed over to the possessed being, to be weighed against a bag of rupees on a large old-fashioned scale. The baby was being balanced we were told, the coins a gift to the gods.
Posted by Alzashelza 03.03.2008 20:41 Archived in India
Hello again Ali and Michelle! When I logged on today and found Fort Cochin, Kerala, I called Dad and told him there was another blog - and didn't discover another 2 besides were there at the same time. They must have all arrived together because I have been checking every day and thinking there would be an answer to that .....destination! It's very varied and interesting and some is more relaxing than others obviously. Continue to enjoy Mum and Dad S.
03.03.2008 by lejazpring