Tirayattam, aka: Tirayāṭṭam; 1 Definition(s)

Introduction

Tirayattam means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Hinduism

Purana and Itihasa (epic history)

Tirayāṭṭam (तिरयाट्टम्).—A form of unrefined drama current in Kerala. This ancient art originally came into being to propitiate some gods. There are others of this kind like 'Mutiyeṭṭu' 'Tīyāṭṭu' and 'Ayyappan Pāṭṭu' which all belong to a class of Ritualistic plays.

This folk drama is a colourful pageant devoted to gods. Its artistic value is worth noticing. This is known by different names like 'Tira', 'Teyya' and 'Kaliyāṭṭam'. 'Tira' in ancient language means 'daivadarśana' (sight of gods) 'Teyya' is the corrupt form of 'daiva'. Tirayāṭṭam is a visible amusement where actors appear dressed as gods. Because the actors dance in the dresses of gods, this is called devāṭṭam also. Teyyāṭṭam is the distorted form of devāṭṭam. Because this is both a Kali (play) and an āṭṭam (dance) this is called Kaliyāṭṭam also. (See full article at Story of Tirayāṭṭam from the Puranic encyclopaedia by Vettam Mani)

context information

The Purana (पुराण, purāṇas) refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

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