Thira and Poothan is basically a ritual folk art ,in relation with local festivals, performed by “Mannan” – a dalit community , inthe middle parts of kerala , especially in Valluvanad (Thrissur , Malappuram and Palakkad districts)
‘Thira’ is considered as Kannaki or Bhadrakali , who set out her journey on “Vethala” along with ‘ Bhoothaganas’ to kill ‘Darikasura’ .
‘Poothan’ (Bhootham) is encharged to mould ‘Cilambu’(anklets) for kannaki. He approaches and hands over a little amount of gold to ‘Thattan’-the goldsmith, for this purpose.But unfortunately, he got cheated.Confused Poothan stuck,bites tongue and looks helplessly.This turns as a mythical background.
‘Para’ is the orchestra for Thira and ‘Thudi’ for Poothan.
Thira and Poothan visits the sorrounding houses and wishes happiness and prosperity to all ,during Pooram(Festival) season.On the day of Pooram ,they reaches the nearby kali temple and parts away after a beautiful divine dance.
This art form is unique in its dress and costumes , crowns and ornaments , colourful facial drawings , sculptural beauty , rhythmatic percussions , particular pattern of steps and physical enchanting exercises.
