The very first ritual which happens in the Padayani Kalam, the arena where the performance is held, begins with Choottuvaippu or burning of torches made of dry coconut leaves and is followed by the drumming of the Thappu by the Padayani master. It is believed that the drumming invites the Goddess to the Padayani Kalam. Next is the Chootu Valathu (circumambulating the temple with the burning torches). It is then followed by the ritual of Kotti Vilikkal or Vilichariyikkal, in which the Goddess is informed about the weeklong performance. During the first two days of the festival, only these rituals are performed.