One of the oldest martial arts in India, Kalaripayattu, although practised in most parts of southern India, originated in the state of Kerala in the 4th century A. D. Kalari, a Malayalam word, refers to a specific type of school/gymnasium/training hall where martial arts are practised or taught (in this case it’s Kalaripayattu). According to legends, Sage Parasurama, who built temples and introduced martial arts, started Kalaripayattu. This art form includes mock duels (armed and unarmed combat) and physical exercises. Not accompanied by any drumming or song, the most important aspect is the style of fighting. Kalaripayattu’s most important key is footwork; it also includes kicks, strikes and weapon-based practice. Its popularity in the country can be easily seen when one looks at Indian movies including Ashoka and the Myth. Even women practice this art. Unniyarcha, a legendary heroine, won many battles using this martial art. Even though Kalaripayattu is used as a means of unarmed self-defence and a way to achieve physical fitness today, it is still rooted in the traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Kalaripayattu includes a number of techniques and aspects.
Some of them are Uzhichil or the massage with Gingli oil, Fighting with Otta (an ‘S’ shaped stick), Maipayattu or body exercises, Puliyankam or sword fight, Verumkai or bare-handed fight, AngaThari or use of metal weapons and sticks of Kothari.
