France, April 5 -- In northern Kerala, far from India's big cities and tourist trails, an ancient ritual brings the gods down to earth - and takes aim at injustice. RFI went tothe town of Payyanur to witnessthis Hindu ceremony carried out by Theyyam performers.

Every January, as the region of Kannur in the Indian state of Kerala hums with drums and colour, millions of people gather to witness the Theyyams - mystical performers who embody gods that once led rebellions against the powerful.

Their faces are painted with wild patterns, their costumes rise taller than trees and their message is one of resistance.

In the town of Payyanur, hundreds gathered near a village temple at the end of a road lined with coconut palms and painted houses...