Padayani is a ritual art form conducted in the Bhadrakali temples of Central Travancore. The art form is presented as a symbolic act for pleasing the goddess Bhadrakali who remains ferocious after killing the demon Darika.

During Padayani performances, artists wear spectacular masks and headgears, called Kolams. There are different varieties of Kolams to represent each distinct figure like Yakshi, Pakshi, Kaalan, Kuthira, Maadan, Marutha, Pisach, Ganapathi, Bhairavi, and Kaanjiramaala.