Thirra

Thirra is a ritual dance of north Kerala, south India, performed in Bhagavati temples. Thirra is performed primarily in the adjoining areas of Kannur and Kasaragod districts. This art form is performed by the artists of "Peruvannan" (Vannan) community. It has some similarity with Theyyam. It will be done at the time of "Utsavam" (Annual temple festival). Thirra brings the gods to life. Performers dress up with ceremonial facial paint and loud clothing and dance in front of the deity, the bhagwati. The objective clearly is to bring a sense of awe to the proceedings.Each performer represents a particular deity and is sponsored by devotees as a prayer offering.These dancers are viewed as possessed by the gods when they are in their act, with devotees queuing up to meet them to share woes and wishes.

Alcohol plays a very significant role in the proceedings,it is an offering to the gods and almost all the performers dance under the influence. This helps in creating the feeling of "possessed".

The thirra gods do not reflect the brahmanical pantheon of Hindu Gods and are derivatives from ancient tribal beliefs.

Different types of Thiras

* Bhagavati Thirra
* Bhairavan Thirra
* Chanthu Thirra
* Gulikan Thirra
* Kuttichathan Thirra
* Hanuman Thirra
* Pottan Thirra
* Kandakarnan Thirra
* Chamundi Thirra
* Vasurimala Thirra
* NagaKali Thirra
* Dharikavadham Thirra
* Naga Kaali Thira
* Bhadra kaali Thira
* Raktheshwari Amma
* Kurumba Bhagawathi