Monthi Gulikan theyyam is a rare theyyam performed during the theyyam – kaliyattam – thira festival in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. As per information, Monthi Gulikan is one among the eight Gulikan theyyams performed in the tharavadu, kavu and temples in North Kerala. The story of Monthi 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 Monthi Gulikan from the left thumb. He pressed the left thumb of his leg down and Monthi Gulikan appeared holding Trishul and pasha or rope to tie souls. It is believed that Monthi 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.
Monthi Gulikan is performed Kanhangad Padannakkad
Valiyaveedu Tharavadu Devasthanam temple (October 28 to October 29) and Kannur
Mathamangalam Kaithapram Idamana Illam temple (March 29 to March 30)