In its tenth edition, 'Ponnyathankam' celebrates kalaripayattu legacy of Kadirur

FOR GENERATIONS, Malayalees have cherished the Vadakkan Pattukal -- medieval Malayalam ballads that recount tales of valour and tradition.

- LAKSHMI ATHIRA @Kannur

Among the legendary figures celebrated in these ballads, Thacholi Othenan stands as one of the greatest warriors of the 16th century. A highly skilled Chekavar from Manikkoth Kovilakath in Thacholi, near Vadakara, Othenan's life and kalaripayattu battles are immortalised alongside those of the famed Puthooram Veedu clan, central to Kerala's martial heritage.

Thacholi Othenan is often likened to Robin Hood for his humanitarian deeds. One of the most famous episodes of his life took place in Kadirur, a village renowned for its kalaripayattu tradition. In Ponniam, Othenan fought a fierce three-day duel against the infamous Kadirur Gurukkal. The battle, held on Kumbham 9, 10, and 11, ended when Othenan employed the forbidden technique of 'Poozhi Kadakan' to defeat and kill his opponent.