Muthappan is a fierce folk deity of north Kerala, uniquely worshipped through the Theyyam ritual dance-possession. His temple at Parassinikkadavu (Kannur district) is one of the very few where Brahminical orthodoxy is set aside — dogs are fed at the shrine, toddy is offered, and fish is served as prasāda. Theyyam (from teyyam = deyvam, god) is a living possession-ritual unique to north Kerala and bordering Tulu Nadu. During the Theyyam performance (October–May), the spirit of the deity desce
Deities
