Kannyarkali, also known as Desathukali, is a folk art usually performed by the Nair community of
Palakkad area. With the rhythmic grace of folk dance performed around a
nilavilakku, it combines the nimble movements of martial arts. This folk art is performed during March-April. Kannyarkali is conducted in temples as well as in places called 'Thara' - a venue for informal gatherings. It is played to the accompaniment of devotional folk songs and the loud beat of
ilathalam and percussion instruments such as
chenda,
madalam,
edakka and udukku. The play usually lasts for four days. Each day's performance is known by different names - Iravakali, Anadikoothu, Vallon and Malama. On the fourth day, the performance is done by hill tribes in which tribal women also participate.
