“The Dance of Gods “delves into the heart of Kerala's 1500-year-old Theyyam tradition, a sacred ritual where ordinary men transform into living deities. This documentary intimately follows the lives of Theyyam artists, revealing their extraordinary journey from mortals to gods. We witness their struggles, intense preparations, and the profound physical and spiritual metamorphosis they undergo to embody divine spirits. The documentary not only celebrates the spectacular transformation from human to god but also highlights the intricate connection between Theyyam and Kerala's cultural identity. By weaving together the artists' personal stories, mesmerizing performances, and the lush backdrop of Kerala, this documentary offers a nuanced portrayal of a living tradition. It invites viewers to witness a world where the ordinary becomes divine, providing unique insights into the artists' lives and Kerala's rich cultural heritage.

Living in Kerala for a year, I was captivated by Theyyam, an ancient ritual where performers embody gods. Inspired by its rich tradition and deep devotion, I set out to document Theyyam from a fresh perspective—through the eyes of an explorer. Approaching the project from an exploratory perspective, I aimed to offer a unique outlook. In my previous documentaries, I have always sought to capture genuine emotions and present them in a natural and cinematic manner, allowing viewers to truly immerse themselves in the experience. This documentary was no different in intent but more ambitious in scope. As both the director and main editor, I had a clear vision of how I wanted the film to unfold, with a strong emphasis on music to enhance the spiritual experience. Our small team of three faced significant challenges, filming in 42-degree heat and navigating language barriers. With only one other DOP and a line producer fluent in the local language, we had to be precise and respectful, capturing the rituals without any disruptions. With a tentative structure in mind, we embarked on our journey, capturing three different types of Theyyam over nine intense days. Every moment, apart from the interviews, was filmed in the most natural yet meticulously planned manner. Through this documentary, I hope to showcase India's rich cultural heritage from an insider's perspective, offering audiences a chance to experience Theyyam as if they are in the minds of the performers. My goal is to reveal the profound dedication and struggles of those who bring this tradition to life and to share their deeply held beliefs with the world.