The Theyyam is an ancient ritual of Northern Kerala in India. Here traditional performers go through hours of elaborate make up with natural dyes and a combination of elaborate costumes and freshly made adornments. Each theyyam is highly structured and follows a pattern of movements and behaviours which are enhanced by the performers involvement and trance-like state. They stylised dances are accompanied by energetic percussive rhythms. These are traditionally sponsored by large matrilineal family units called Tharavads and their related temples. They are meant to create a link between members of the family and their ancestors. These pictures are from the Koodali tharavad near Kannur in Kerala.