paikkidakkolam .calf motif
In Kerala bullock is believed to be the symbol of agriculture. A Good bullock yields to exceptional harvest. Farmers offer a bullock to the local deity to express his gratitude towards all those natural factors sunlight, rain, cattle which contribute to the farmer a good harvest. Some offer Paikkidakkolam or calf motif to save their cattle from diseases.
the fest of those who toil .in the field
The kalakali being presented in Thrithala area is different from the other parts of the Palakkad district. The Bullocks are well decorated and remains as a visual splendour in other parts of the district. But here it is a crude form and smaller too.
ready for the show
Farmers make kalas or calf motifs using bamboo poles and paddy hay and dried plantain leaves. The head is made of coral tree, a soft wood (murukku in Malayalam).
kala kali
Farmers hold the effigies of bullocks on their shoulders, thus expressing their thankfulness towards the animals for working tirelessly for the farmers the whole year round.
kalakali
the offering of this bullock or calf motif is usually carried out by members of Pulaya community.they shouts aloud pooy pooy poooy rhythmatically, to redempt the cattle stock from the devils,
and other evil spirits. The theme of gratitude remains relevant even in the age of tractors and bulldozers.
bullock motifs in trithala area