Kara Gulikan theyyam is a rare theyyam performed during the theyyam – kaliyattam – thira festival in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. As per information, Kara Gulikan is one among the eight Gulikan theyyams performed in the tharavadu, kavu and temples in North Kerala. The story of Kara Gulikan theyyam is associated with Shiva annihilating Yama, the god of death, to protect Saint Markandeshwara, the ardent devotee of Shiva.
With Yama disappeared from the universe there was no death. This caused immense problems in nature. When Shiva realized the mistake he gave birth to Kara Gulikan from the left thumb. He pressed the left thumb of his leg down and Kara Gulikan appeared holding Trishul and pasha or rope to tie souls. It is believed that Kara Gulikan keeps a track of all the good and bad deeds of a person.
The theyyam has a ferocious mask and the body is covered in tender coconut leaves. The theyyam holds burning torch.
The theyyam is offered worship for overcoming fear of death and for early cure from serious diseases.