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Theyyam - Backstage Stories

by Satyaki Chakraborti (Singapore)

India

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The Painted God. Theyyam is a centuries-old dance form practiced in the northern districts of Kerala, where the dancer is believed to transform into a deity during the performance. Pictured here is a Theyyam dancer, lying still, as an intricate make up is painstakingly applied on his face.
The Painted God. Theyyam is a centuries-old dance form practiced in the northern districts of Kerala, where the dancer is believed to transform into a deity during the performance. Pictured here is a Theyyam dancer, lying still, as an intricate make up is painstakingly applied on his face.
Trance. I chanced upon this young man in deep thought, waiting to have his costumes put on. The silence, the muted lighting, the trance like expression of the subject made me feel he was somewhere between Man and God.
Trance. I chanced upon this young man in deep thought, waiting to have his costumes put on. The silence, the muted lighting, the trance like expression of the subject made me feel he was somewhere between Man and God.
All the King's Men. Theyyam is among the most photographed events in the region. Make-up of the performer plays a big role in ensuring the God looks his part. Toiling hard behind the scenes are these make-up artistes who work long hours, often through the night.
All the King's Men. Theyyam is among the most photographed events in the region. Make-up of the performer plays a big role in ensuring the God looks his part. Toiling hard behind the scenes are these make-up artistes who work long hours, often through the night.
Transformation. It was close to four hours since I started photographing the session, and by the time the costumes were put on I realised the sky was turning pink. Dawn was about to break.
Transformation. It was close to four hours since I started photographing the session, and by the time the costumes were put on I realised the sky was turning pink. Dawn was about to break.
Capturing God. It was the end of an intense session, with the make-up crew applying finishing touches to this very elaborate ritual. The actual Theyyam dance is a widely photographed occasion, but I found the preparation, with its natural dyes, intricate make-up and costumes, equally arresting.
Capturing God. It was the end of an intense session, with the make-up crew applying finishing touches to this very elaborate ritual. The actual Theyyam dance is a widely photographed occasion, but I found the preparation, with its natural dyes, intricate make-up and costumes, equally arresting.

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