Attancheri Gulikan theyyam is a rare theyyam performed during the theyyam – kaliyattam – thira festival in Kannur and Kasaragod districts of Kerala. As per information, Attancheri Gulikan is one among the several types of Gulikan theyyams performed in the tharavadu, kavu and temples in North Kerala. The story of Attancheri 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 Attancheri Gulikan from the left thumb. He pressed the left thumb
of his leg down and Attancheri Gulikan appeared holding Trishul and pasha or
rope to tie souls. It is believed that Attancheri 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.
Attancheri Gulikan theyyam kolam is performed at Karuvacheri
Kuttyattu Sree Thondachan Devasthanam Temple near Payyanur on April 21 early
morning hours (Medam 8).