The word `Margam` means path or way, religion or creed. The real source of inspiration for the performance of Margam Kali was Kalaripayattu, which was very popular when the Christian community had developed the form. This dance consists of several other group dances and martial arts like Parichamuttu Kali. The theme of the songs revolves around the life of St. Thomas & his contribution.

The art was developed for propagating the Christian religious ideas among the people. The dancers play in a circle around a lighted oil lamp while singing but there are no musical instruments to accompany the music. The leader of the troupe or tutor known as `Asan` leads the song and the group repeats the same. The language used in the songs of Margam Kali reveals its relation with the old Tamil form.