Dance of the Gods: A 'Theyyam' performer raises the 'Thirumudi' (Royal crown) of Muchilot Bhagavathi amid the 'Perumkaliyattam' festival held at Muchilottu Bhagavathi Temple in Vengara, Kannur. Theyyam, an age-old folk ritual, seamlessly blends elements of theatre, mime, and religious devotion. Its roots are said to precede Hinduism.