Pottan Theyyam is regarded as the manifestation of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva manifested himself in the form of a Chandalan – a lower caste untouchable to test the integrity and spiritual powers of Sree Sankaracharya – the Saint and Scholar who propagated the Advaita Vedanta in India. Pottan Theyyam during the performance

While performing, as part of the ‘Agnipravesham’ the Theyyam carelessly throws himself into the pyre lit with wooden logs. Lying upright on the pyre, the Pottan Theyyam laughs and howls making fun of the social evils. The Theyyam also indulge in doing friendly pranks with the spectators adding to the entertainment.

It is a major attraction during the performance wherein the Theyyam announces “Enikku Kulirunne” while lying on the hot pyre, meaning “I’m shivering with coldness”. Infact, The Theyyam re-enacts in ritualistic expressions the life of those personalities who had laid down their life for a social cause and is interpreted as a social/spiritual satire that is characteristic of Pulapottan’s personality.

In Kannur and Kasaragod Districts, the performance of Pottan Theyyam is organized annually in temple shrines and certain ancestral homes. Pottan Theyyam is performed in temples during Theyyam Season as per the Theyyam Calendar. It is still celebrated as a religious ritual regarded to bring prosperity to the village. Tyndis provides Theyyam Calendar with a list of Pottan Theyyam performances.

The Theyyattam of Pottan Daivam is believed to wipe out troubles and bring health and wealth. Pottan Theyyam is beyond caste and religions and is worshipped by all. After the performance and customs, the locals may approach and speak with Pottan Theyyam and receive his teachings and blessings for a better life.