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Velans
The Velans as well as Vannans and Malayars of Cannanore district were
the original dancers of 'Theyyam' or 'Kaliyattam', which is a highly ritualistic
dance with its rare and grotesque make-up and costume, lively foot work,
gymnastic fervour and ritualistic vitality. 'Teyyam' represents a glorious
period of folk life in Kerala and the souls of the dead heroes of the
land and the gods and goddesses are supposed to come in our midst through
the medium of the possessed dancers and converse with us on matters of
even, contemporary significance.
The Malayans or the people of Mala (mountain) were the
early Teyyam dancers. The tribal communities that were the custodians
of the art of dancing were known by different names like Mavelon, Velan,
Koppalan. Some of them belong to the Tulu country of the present South
Karnataka which once formed the contiguous area belonging to the same
cultural heritage.
Ezhavas form a major community known as Chovas. In the
northern districts Tiyyas also come under this community. They are found
all over Kerala basically as a cultivating class. Traditionally they are
connected with growing and tapping of coconut trees. The term Chovan is
believed generally as a corruption of Sevaka or servant. Ezhavas belong
to the working class and they were treated as untouchables. Ezhavas are
now a fast improving, gaining strength economically, culturally and politically.
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