Kasaragod, November 26: After a video went viral in which a theyyam artiste is seen chasing and beating people with a stick, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) has registered a suo motu case. The incident took place during the ancient ritual's performance in Kanjangad in Kerala's Kasaragod district. The state's Human Rights Commission has asked district collector and the police for a report into the matter within 30 days, the Indian Express reported.

Theyyam is a famous ritual art form of worship practised in Kerala, predominantly in Kannur, Kasaragod districts and some parts of Wayanad and Kozhikode districts. It encompasses mime, dance and music. The ancient dance is accompanied by the chorus of musical instruments such as Chenda, Kurumkuzal, Elathalam and Veekkuchenda. There are more than 400 theyyams, each with their own style and choreography. Kerala Couple Harassed by Fake WhatsApp Message, Decide to Trace Origin of Rumours Shared Online.

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Kerala SHRC took the case after a video of Moovalamkuzhi Chamundi theyyam beating devotees with sticks went viral during a performance at Kanjangad's Arayil Bhagavathy temple, the report said.

"We have asked the police to investigate and file a report. Since the incident is of the nature of a criminal offence, we have asked the police for a report. Because it involves religious rituals, the collector has to look into it as well," an officer was quoted by the daily.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 26, 2019 07:41 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).