The origin of the 'Pottan Theyyam' finds its roots in the life of Sree Sankaracharya, as he embarked upon the ascent to the 'Sarwanjha Peedam'; the revered throne of knowledge. It was at this sacred juncture that Lord Shiva, disguised and unrecognizable even to Sankaracharya, chose to test the depth of his wisdom and the purity of his heart.
In this divine test, Shiva assumed the form of Pulapottan, accompanied by Pulachamundi, Parvati Devi in disguise, and Pulamaruthan, his loyal minister Nadikesan.
Sankaracharya, unaware of their true identities, hesitated at the presence of those he believed to be from a marginalized caste. He asked them to leave. What he did not realize was that Pottan was none other than Lord Shiva, veiled in humble form.
What followed was a profound dialogue. Shiva, as Pulaya Pottan, challenged Sankaracharya with questions that pierced through the illusion of caste. He dismantled the notion of superiority rooted in birth, emphasizing the absurdity and cruelty of a system that divides human beings.
In a moment of striking clarity, Shiva posed a question:
“If our bodies are wounded, does our blood not flow the same color? What then, truly separates us?”
This simple yet profound inquiry became a turning point. Sankaracharya, awakened by the divine presence before him, realized he had been tested, not only in intellect but in compassion.
In that moment, the eternal truth became clear: all human beings are fundamentally one. The blood that flows within us does not carry caste, it carries life. Lord Shiva’s message was a call for unity, humility, and humanity.
To this day, every Pottan Theyyam performance brings this lesson to life. The performer recites the teachings aloud, ensuring that the wisdom imparted by Lord Shiva continues to echo across generations.