Discover Neeliyar Kottam in Kannur, the sacred grove of Neeli Yakshi (Neeliyar Kottath Amma), where the powerful ritual art of Theyyam is performed weekly, keeping alive Kerala’s ancient spirit worship.
The Mystical Heart of Kannur
Kannur in North Kerala is often called the land of Theyyam, where gods, goddesses, and spirits descend into the human form through ritual performance. Among its countless sacred groves (kavu), Neeliyar Kottam holds a unique place, dedicated to the fierce yet benevolent deity Neeli Yakshi, also revered as Neeliyar Kottath Amma.
Who is Neeli Yakshi?
In Kerala’s folklore, Yakshis are powerful feminine spirits, often associated with beauty, mystery, and divine energy. Unlike the fearful versions in legends, Neeliyar Kottath Amma is worshipped as a protector and guide of devotees. She represents both the fierce and nurturing aspects of the Divine Mother.
Her story has inspired songs, oral traditions, and even cinema – the Malayalam film “Neeli” drew from these legends, showing her enduring place in the cultural imagination.
Neeliyar Kottam – A Sacred Grove (Kavu)
A kavu is a traditional sacred grove where ancient nature and spirit worship still thrive. At Neeliyar Kottam, the goddess resides not in a grand stone temple, but in the living energy of the grove, surrounded by trees, lamps, and the chants of devotees.
Here, divinity is experienced not in silence, but in the fire, drumbeats, and dance of Theyyam.
The Power of Theyyam at Neeliyar Kottam
Every week, Theyyam is performed at Neeliyar Kottam, bringing the goddess alive.
Theyyam as Living Divinity – When the performer dons the elaborate makeup, crown, and ornaments, he is no longer human. He becomes the living embodiment of Neeli Yakshi. Fire, Drums, and Trance – The air vibrates with the rhythm of chenda (drums), the roar of fire torches, and chants. Devotees witness not art, but the goddess herself walking among them. Blessings and Oracles – After the performance, the Theyyam speaks directly to devotees, giving blessings, guidance, and sometimes warnings – believed to be the words of Amma herself.
A Spiritual Experience Beyond Religion
What makes Neeliyar Kottam unique is that people from all communities, castes, and backgrounds gather here. The worship of Neeli Amma is not bound by temple rules, but by the faith that the goddess protects and uplifts those who surrender to her.
Why Neeliyar Kottam Calls Seekers
It is a living reminder of Kerala’s ancient goddess traditions. It shows how spirit worship and nature worship continue in modern times. It is a place where devotion and art merge into one living experience.
For seekers, visiting Neeliyar Kottam is not just about witnessing Theyyam – it is about standing in the presence of a raw, primal form of the Divine Mother.
Final Thoughts
In the heart of Kannur, Neeliyar Kottam continues to keep alive the worship of Neeli Yakshi, reminding us that spirituality is not confined to stone temples but thrives in forests, flames, and human hearts.
Here, the goddess dances every week, reminding devotees of the eternal presence of the Divine Feminine.
