An unexpected incident took place during a temple festival in Kasaragod district, Kerala, when a young man collapsed after being accidentally hit by a shield carried by a Theyyam performer. The event happened at the Pallikkara Vishnu Temple in Nileshwaram during the ritual performance called Vellattam, part of the annual celebrations.
The young man, named Manu, had come to watch the colorful Theyyam performance. Theyyam is a traditional art form of Kerala where performers wear bright costumes, painted faces, and carry symbolic items like swords and shields to represent divine figures. During the performance, one of the shields accidentally struck Manu on the head, and he immediately fell down.
People at the festival were shocked, and there was a brief panic. Temple staff and local volunteers quickly took Manu to a nearby hospital. Doctors later confirmed that although the blow was strong enough to make him collapse, his life was not in danger. He is now under observation and his condition is stable.
The incident has raised questions about safety during such traditional performances. Theyyam is respected as a sacred ritual, but it involves fast movements, weapons, and close contact with the audience. Experts say organizers should make sure there is enough space between performers and spectators to avoid accidents.
Cultural experts also reminded people that this accident should not reduce the importance of Theyyam. The ritual is seen as a living tradition where performers act as gods and ancestral spirits, blessing the devotees. The Pallikkara Vishnu Temple festival, like many others in northern Kerala, attracts large crowds every year who come to enjoy the devotion and energy of the performances.
Authorities have assured everyone that Manu is safe and that extra precautions will be taken in future events. The temple committee is expected to review safety rules to prevent similar incidents. Despite the scare, the festival continued with faith and enthusiasm, showing the community’s strong connection to its traditions.
This incident is a reminder that while cultural rituals are valuable, safety must also be ensured to protect both the performers and the audience.
