Mudiyattu is an drama associated with the worship of the Mother Goddess, Bhadrakali. It is performed with minor variations in almost all parts of the state. The dance form depicts the taking over of the mudi, or crown, from the demon Darikan by Bhadrakali.

The costumed Bhadrakali’s face is painted in black, outlined in a paste of lime and rice-powder, with spots denoting smallpox lesions and fangs for ferocity. She is equipped with weapons and a semi-circular crown almost a meter around. This awe-inspiring dance carries all the excitement of the fierce battle between the goddess and demon Darikan.