Othenan theyyam is a rare theyyam performed at Thacholi Manikothu Mana in Vadakara. As per information, this the Thacholi Othenan Thira is dedicated to Thacholi Othenan, the champion Kalaripayattu warrior of the Kadathanadu kingdom. As per Othenan theyyam story, he successful fought 64 duels he fought in his short span of 32 years on earth. The warrior was on his way home after defeating Mathiloor Gurukkal when he was fatally shot on the sly by a disciple of Gurukkal.
Thacholi Othenan lived and died at Thacholi Manikothkavu
near Vadakara. Today, what remains of the homestead is a temple, with shrines
dedicated to Othenan, his elder brother, Koma Kurup, a nephew, Kelu Kurup, both
renowned warriors, and another one nearby for the Pulluvan, who avenged the
murder of Othenan.
Once a year, in the Malayalam month of Kumbham, through the
annual festival locals celebrate their hometown hero with melam, Kalaripayattu
and the Thacholi Othenan Thira.
One can witness Othenan theyyam on Kumbham 10 (February 22).
They theyyam has all the characteristics of a male theyyam –
beard, small head gear and other embellishments. The theyyam holds a sword and shield.