Though the myth of Velutha Bhootham - his name simply means "white ghost"- is vague and unclear, this particular one is associated with Aaiyram Thengil Chamundi, an important Theyyam deity. As part of his ritual, he must carry two chickens and run just under two miles to the goddess' main shrine, sacrifice the chickens and then, after mystically communing with her, return to complete his own rituals and bless his devotees.

Text & image © Pepita Seth