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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