In February 2017, I went to spend a couple of days in the northern part of Kerala to witness and shoot the sacred 'Theyyam' ceremonies - during which men from the lower Hindu casts turn into Gods for a few (long) hours and after much preparation. The people from these communities believe that the man becomes a God once the head gear is in place. The Theyyam will then perform for hours on end - dancing, giving advice to the local priests and oracles and blessings to the people. These men are trained from a very young age to perform and hold that role in their communities - the youngest I met being 14 years old. Theyyam ceremonies take place all day and night, in temples, small villages and even in people's homes, and are a time for healing as well as celebration, as communities gather around the rituals and large feasts.
