Mysuru: Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS), Southern Regional Centre (SRC), Mysuru, has  displayed Chilambu, a ritual male anklet from Kerala, at the Wellington House, Irwin Road here in continuation of its Exhibit of the Month Series.  The expo, inaugurated by IGRMS Officer-In-Charge J. Vijay Mohan on Apr.11, will be open from 10 am to 6 pm. [Ph: 0821-2448231]. Chilambu, also known as Kalchilambu, will be displayed throughout this Month.

Chilambu is a pair of hollow circular rings of silver with some beads inside. The ritualistic dancers wear them to create a rhythmical sound effect. It is a pair of foot ornament having an oval-shape or a brass anklet known as “Chilambu” usually worn by the tribal dancers in South India, mainly Kerala. They use the anklets for Theyyam Dance performances. It has small beads inside, which make a pleasant sound.

This object was collected from Kozhikode, Kerala, during a workshop by IGRMS, Bhopal.

Theyyam Dance: Theyyam, which is also known as ‘Kaliyattam’ or ‘Thirayattam,’ is celebrated each year with pomp and rigour. There are various forms of Theyyam and each can be distinguished through the use of facial make-up, captivating headgear, distinct colourful costume, body decoration with natural resources, and unique ornaments. Most variations of Theyyam are performed by men.

Theyyam is an 800-year-old celebration of divinity and devotion in Northern Malabar region of Kerala. It is a most visually impressive form of cultural enthusiasm among the people of different castes. With its root steeped in the age-old Dravidian culture of South India, Theyyam is a mélange of dance, drama, music and mime. Though it has become a tribal festivity, the subject of performance is the glory of divine heroes and ancestral spirits. The ceremonious dance is accompanied by the chorus of such musical instruments as Chenda, Elathalam, Kurumkuzhal and Veekku Chenda.