FEATURE a form of worshipping that is done with flowers . After this comes Kalam Thullal ,” Manikandan said .
Kalam Thullal
Kalam Thullal is the third and final process in Kalamezuthu . Once the song is over , the person who is known as Velichappadu rubs off the entire drawing . Velichappadu is a translator who performs as a messenger between God and the devotees . “ I cannot explain how I feel whenever I perform as a velichappadu in temples because the words are not enough to describe it ,” said Vasudevan Krishnan , a velichappadu who has been performing in different temples in Kerala over the past eight years . A Velichappadu wears a red coloured outfit with their body fully covered with turmeric powder . They hold a giant sword in their right hand and an ankle chain in the left during the performance . This ankle chain is known as Chilambu . They are also required to wear a heavy belt around their waist as part of their costume . “ Even though it is a massive costume , I never felt it . In my mind , I do believe that it is because of the blessing from the deity ,” Krishnan said . After his performance , the velichappadu mentioned that he lays down on the floor and thanks the almighty for allowing him to perform the Kalam Thullal .
Healing Aspect
He mentioned that any unwanted bacteria present in their nasal passages get killed by the powder ’ s smell . “ By killing the unwanted bacteria , people can stay away from diseases like cold , cough , and fever ,” he added . This unique art form can last forever in this world , as it has many benefits to human beings . Even throughout the pandemic , Kalamezuthu has been successfully performed in many different temples in Kerala behind closed doors . Many temples have started taking online bookings for Kalamezuthu , as large gatherings are currently far too dangerous during the pandemic .
Image : Bhadrakali Temple in Kerala , Telangana
ISSUE 4 SLEUTH 23