article

Images of transgression: Teyyam in Malabar

Social analysis54 (2) • Published In 2010 • Pages: 130-150

By: Vadakkiniyil, Dinesan.

Abstract
This article discusses aspects of the teyyam ritual as practiced both within Kerala and in diasporic communities outside of the state. The focus is on the transformation of the Muttappan temple from traditional sacred space into a modern public sphere, in regard to globalization and emerging economic opportunities that have come with growth in urbanization, wage work, and migration. Together, these changes have transformed ritual practice into a broadly participatory and political event expressing identity and modernity; changes evident in the ritual's increased potency to deterritorialize and reterritorialize, transgressing boundaries and reasserting autonomy.
Subjects
Prayers and sacrifices
Revelation and divination
General character of religion
Castes
Sacred objects and places
Magic
Sociocultural trends
Congregations
Dissemination of news and information
External relations
culture
Kerala
HRAF PubDate
2017
Region
Asia
Sub Region
South Asia
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Anthropologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem
Field Date
2001-2009
Coverage Date
1980-2009
Coverage Place
Payyanur municipality, Kannur district, Kerala, India
Notes
Dinesan Vadakkiniyil
Includes bibliographical references (p. 149-150)
LCCN
89657469
LCSH
Kerala (India)