Karanavar Theyyam is a popular theyyam performed in Kannur and Kasaragod regions of Kerala during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival. As per information, this is the theyyam of the head of family or tharavadu who attains greatness through piety, intelligence, courage or through darshan of a god or goddess. The story of Karanavar Theyyam varies from house to house. The common element is that of an elderly person doing something out of the ordinary to protect the family or the area. In some cases, Karnavar will have the darshan of a Goddess and he takes her help in fighting enemies.
This theyyam appears in a peaceful form and sometimes holds a sword and a shield. He is offered worship for peace and prosperity of the family. The theyyam is also invoked when there is an unnatural death in the family and to solve family issues.
The theyyam is widely seen in many kavu, tharavadu and devasthanam in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala.
വണ്ണാന്മായര് കെട്ടിയാടുന്ന ഈ തെയ്യത്തിനു മുഖത്ത് ചായില്യവും മനയോലയും ദേഹത്ത് മഞ്ഞള് കിരീടവും വാളും പരിചയും ഉണ്ടാകും.