Though Thidambu dance is very much common in Malabar region, it can also be seen very rarely in some parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Thidambu means the replica of an idol in a temple, which could be taken out of the holy place for certain rituals connected with the poojas or festivals of the temples. It represents the idol of the presiding deity in that holy place. Thidambu is made of a bamboo pieces like a half circle known as Chattams. These Chattams are adorned with flowers and gold and silver ornaments. The metal idol, which represents the presiding deity in the place of worship, is joined with the Chattam. This is known as Thidambu. The Brahmins perform Thidambu dance only in connection with the annual festivals of temples.
The dancers dance with the Thidambu on their head according to the rhythm of the chenda or drum. There are other instruments also. Usually this dance is performed in the rhythm like Thakiladi, Adantha, Chembada, Panchari, etc.
There are no records to know about the origin of this dance. It is said that the brahmins who were migrated from Karnataka-Tamil Nadu during the period of Chirakka Rajas started this dance. Some of the famous Thidambu dancers of Kasaragod districts are as follows Late Sri.Vethiramana Sreedharan Namboodiri of Pattena, P.T.Keshavan Embranthiri, Sree Rama Agiithaya, Thachangad, Krishna Adiga of Muttathody, Narayana Adiga, etc. this is mainly the prominent ritual art forms of northern Kerala, especially in Kasargod and Kannur district. It is staged by a group of artists in the Bhagavathy temple premises and in front of sacred Bhagavathy Kavus and shrines.
This is also an integral part of pooram festival celebrated during the month of Meenam i.e. during March-April. Starting from karthika day to pooram day the festival lasts for 9 days. Pooram is celebrated to praise the god of love named Kamadeva. Poorakkali is performed by men folk but in ancient days it was performed by women folk. A group leader who is well versed in the art and poorakkali songs leads the other artists in the group, who is known as Panikkar. The other artists, in chorus, repeat the song sung by the group leader. This is a dance rhythmically around a sacred lamp with elegant steps. While dancing the players clap their hands uniformly to the tune of the song and according to the Thalam by the group leader. Poorakkali has got 18 different forms. Most often the songs narrates the stories from the epic Ramayana.
The ritual dance form justifies intense training and good physical stamina. The forward and backward movements in the dance form attract the audience. Also the abrupt variations in the speed and directions enthrall the spectators.
Invariably poorakkali is followed by a dual of communications staged to test the intellectual capacity of the rival group leaders. This is known as Marathukali as well. Where in intriguing questions are asked to answer suitably and promptly. This splendid ritual art form has become the monopoly of certain castes namely Yadavas or Maniyanis, Thiyyas or Ezhavas Mukayas, Saliyas, etc. of Hindu religion.
