At a time when the entire world, ignoring contextual relevance, is lavishly vocal on political correctness, here is an ancient art form called Theyyam that places the subaltern community in God’s shoes, highlighting a significant stride of social uprising. When these less fortunate protagonists manifest into supernatural beings as Theyyam, even their proprietors from the higher social class who facilitate it bow before them in devotion because they have become sacrosanct during that moment. The Theyyams use the opportunity to berate his benefactor on personal and social injustice issues as well, all when the throng adores the mighty presence of Gods personified and ancestors-heroes-spirits (specimen of Indian shamanism) and animals deified communicating directly with them. Besotting in appearances, concepts and reflections.
Hardback • 352 pages • ISBN 978-93-89136-98-2 • Anthropology