Kalamezhuthu: A Sacred Art of Storytelling

Witness Kalamezhuthu – Kerala’s sacred floor art, where colors, devotion, and storytelling unite in a fleeting masterpiece of tradition

Step into the mystical world of Kalamezhuthu, a rare and mesmerizing ritualistic art form practiced by a handful of skilled artists in Kerala. Deeply rooted in temple traditions, Kalamezhuthu is an elaborate form of floor art, where vibrant natural powders are used to create intricate depictions of deities—primarily Bhadrakali, Ayyappan, and other goddess manifestations. These awe-inspiring artworks come to life in temple spaces, where they serve as offerings and focal points for spiritual ceremonies.

As part of Ekathra’s Cultural Heritage Programme, this experience takes you beyond mere observation—it invites you to witness the patience, devotion, and artistic mastery of the Kalamezhuthu artists as they bring divine figures to life. These grand, ephemeral artworks are not just visual delights; they are steeped in stories from the epics and folklore, narrating tales of power, devotion, and cosmic balance.

The experience also offers insight into the ritualistic significance, symbolism, and the fading legacy of this art form, as only a few traditional families continue to practice it today. Through this journey, you will gain a deeper appreciation of Kerala’s spiritual and artistic traditions, while also supporting the artisans who keep this sacred heritage alive.

Join us in experiencing the magic of Kalamezhuthu—where art, devotion, and storytelling merge into a breathtaking ritual of colors and culture.

Pulluvan Paattu – The Sacred Songs of Nature Worship

Pulluvan Paattu is a unique and deeply spiritual musical tradition of Kerala, intrinsically linked to nature worship and community rituals. As part of Ekathra’s Cultural Heritage Experiences, this programme offers an immersive journey into the sacred musical practices of the Pulluvan community, whose songs invoke divine energies and celebrate Kerala’s ancient traditions of ecological and spiritual harmony.

Performed primarily by the Pulluvan and Pulluvathi communities, Pulluvan Paattu is a ritualistic form of folk music dedicated to serpent worship (Naga Aradhana). This practice is deeply rooted in Kerala’s cultural heritage, where sacred groves (Sarpa Kavu) are preserved as spaces of ecological sanctity and divine presence. The songs, accompanied by traditional instruments like the Pulluvan Veena (a single-stringed lute) and the Pulluvan Kudam (a small earthen pot with strings), create a mystical atmosphere that is believed to appease serpent deities and bring prosperity and protection to the devotees.

Beyond its spiritual significance, Pulluvan Paattu reflects a profound understanding of the interconnection between human life and nature. The rituals and melodies performed in temple premises, homes, and village gatherings reinforce a sense of communal identity and ecological respect. The Pulluvan artists, often regarded as intermediaries between the divine and the earthly realms, play a crucial role in keeping this centuries-old tradition alive through oral transmission and dedicated practice.

Through this experience, participants will have the rare opportunity to witness live performances, engage in discussions with practitioners and scholars, and gain insights into the philosophy and cultural significance of Pulluvan Paattu. This journey into Kerala’s sacred music traditions offers a glimpse into a world where devotion, folklore, and ecological wisdom come together in perfect harmony. Join us as we explore the soul-stirring melodies of Pulluvan Paattu and its enduring legacy in Kerala’s cultural landscape.