Theyyam is ancient Indian art form manifested through three different means: dance, mime, and music. It is 1000 years old and is connected to tribal animism. Kerala, popularly called Gods’ Own Country (on the world tourism map) along with parts of adjoining province of Karnataka is famous for Theyyam performances. In Karnataka it is famously known as Bhuta Kola. There are more than 400 different kinds of Theyyam in Kerala characterised by different music and choreography. The art form is often connected with temples. Males dominate the Theyyam performances. It is performed during October-June. There is no special stage or curtain or other such arrangements for the performance. It continues for 12 to 24 hours with intervals and this is subject to deity or the respective traditional observances. Theyyam performers undergo a special make-up often done by specialists and other fellow-dancers. The dancers along with the drummers recite particular ritual songs detailing on folklore or myths or legends. There are different patterns of face painting. Most often primary and secondary colours are applied. It leaves certain stylization in the dance performances. The dancers undergo a kind of metamorphosis and contextually assume the role of respective deities of the shrine where they are performing. The intricate face make-up, meticulous line drawings, the vibrant colour patterns, facial expressions of the performers, assumed divinity during the performance, thoughtful expressions, the unblinking expertise, the bug-eyed looks etc speak eloquently about the legacy of a colourful tribal and pastoral tradition still extant in the southern parts of India.