Theyyam is a Hindu ritual festival that is practiced commonly in northern Kerala and parts of Karnataka in India. Theyyam showcase the ancient tribal cultures, where performers represent a heroic character with divine power. They wear heavy make-up and huge masks that give a dramatic appearance. The headgear and other ornamental items – that are mostly prepared with bamboo sticks, coconut leaves and colors – look spectacular, in their size as well as in their appearance. The intent of the ritual is to pay respects to specific deities while passing down their stories to the next generation. It is oral storytelling steeped in ancient traditions that precedes much of known Indian history.