Kalamezhuthu

Kalamezhuthu, also known as Dhulee Chitram is one of the traditional temple ritual arts, represents the vibrant blend of Aryan, Dravida, and tribal traditions of Kerala. The word Kalamezhuthu itself has a combination of two Malayalam words; 'Kalam' and 'Ezhuthu' means ‘The act of drawing Kalam’. Kalamezhuthu is considered as an integral part of various traditional rituals of Kerala such as Ayyappantheeyattu, Bhadrakaalitheeyattu, Sarppamthullal, Mudiyettu, Kalampattu etc; and it is mostly observed in Bhgavathy/Bhadrakali temples of Kerala. The deities usually depicted in the Kalams are Goddesses Bhadrakali/Durga, Lord Ayyappa, and Nagas (Serpents).

Kalams are generally the combinations of two-dimensional and three dimensional designs developed from the centre, growing outwards, patch by patch. The colours are spread in the floor, letting it in a thin stream between the thumb and the index finger. The influence of the Tantric must be a later addition. The figures drawn come alive when the eyes of the central figures are opened, again at a particular time marked by ritual. Kalamezhuthu artists are generally from the communities of Kurups, Theyyampadi Nambiars, Theeyadi Nambiars and Theeyadi Unnis of Kerala. The Kalams drawn by these people vary in certain characteristics.

The colour pigments of Kalams are generally collected from the organic products and minerals such as, Rice (white) Turmeric (yellow), Charcoal from paddy husk (black), blend of Turmeric powder and Lime (red) and powdered leaves (green). Although several leaves are found suitable, the most commonly used are those of Albizzia lebbek. These hues are further mixed to obtain more combinations.

Kalamezhuthu ritual has three stages in its implementation, drawing the Kalam, worshiping using lights called Thiriuzhichil in local parlance, and erasing the Kalam known as Kalam mayikkal. During the ritualistic process the people may feel as if the central figure has come alive in the middle of the night with flaming lights around him which gives a magical illumination and realism. The entire ritual of Kalamezhuthu is accompanied by rhythm of various traditional musical instruments of Kerala such as Chenda, Ilathalam, Kuzhal, Komb, Veekkanchenda etc.

Kalam represents the three needs of human life, production, protection and destruction. So it is believed that Kalamezhuthu ritual has the higher superstitious effects that can protect people from the fear of devil, enemies, temptations etc. Naga kalam dedicated to serpents is exclusive in Kerala; they are propitiated even today for fertility and abundance. The powder of herbs that are used to draw the kalam could heal many diseases.

Kalamezhuthu is not only a cultural art form of Kerala; it is a unique representation of the holistic heritage of the state which is deeply rooted in the people’s mind from the past many decades. 

Photo Credit

Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University

Thirur, Malappuram, Kerala