Masks, music and myth: Kummattis return for Onam
The city of Thrissur is preparing for the Kummattikali festival, a traditional masked dance performance held during Onam. The event features intricate wooden masks and costumes made from grass, showcasing local folklore and mythology.
Why it matters
Preserves and highlights the importance of regional cultural heritage and traditional performance arts.
Onam in Thrissur is not complete until the Kummattis step onto the streets.
As the festival season gathers momentum, the city is preparing for the arrival of these colourful, masked dancers who bring with them a distinctive blend of folklore, mythology, and sheer street revelry. From Uthradam to Chathayam, Kummattikali will unfold across Thrissur, with around 50 teams expected to take part this year.
At the heart of the festivities is Kizhakkumpattukara, regarded as the cradle of Kummattikali in Thrissur. The area is already slipping into festival mode, with neighbourhood clubs preparing elaborate ‘kalams’ to welcome the Kummattis. Rice flour mixed with natural colours is traditionally used to create vibrant images of gods, goddesses and mythological characters, adding another layer of colour to the celebrations.
The first thing that catches the eye is the striking wooden mask.
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