Thekkan Kariyathan theyyam is a popular theyyam performed during the annual theyyam thira kaliyattam festival in Kannur and Kasaragod regions of Kerala. As per information, this theyyam is a manifestation of Mahadeva Shiva. As per Thekkan Kariyathan two people went out hunting and fishing. But they were unable to get anything on the day. They were too tired and took refuge in the home of Karingulakkandathakamma. She invited them to have food in her home. The two men went to take bath in a pond and there they happened to see two wonderful fishes. All their attempts to capture them failed. Later they saw the same fish in the well of the women. They lowered a vessel to the well and the fishes entered the vessel. When the men attempted to cut the fish, they showed their true form and disappeared. The two divine beings blessed them and told them that they will be born as their children.
The two children were ferocious warriors and were known as Thekkan Kariyathan (Thekkan Chathu) and Thekkan Karumakan (Thekkan Komappan). They performed numerous miracles especially punishing those who did not respect or obey them.
Kaikkolan Theyyam is performed along with the Thekkan
Kariyathan theyyam.