Kalaripayattu is a traditional Indian martial art form that originated in the southern state of Kerala. It is considered one of the oldest martial arts in the world, with a history that dates back over 3,000 years. Kalaripayattu incorporates a combination of physical techniques, weaponry, and healing practices.
In the past kalaris (combat arena or battle field) formed an integral part of the lives of the people. Without any gender discrimination boys and girls in their childhood would be sent to the Kalaris for practicing. With social life undergoing changes, the position of Kalaris and their influence changed. Today, Kalaripayattu is staged during festivals and other occasions as a showpiece. People are more interested in kalari treatment (as a system of medicine) and Marmachikitsa (treatment of vital parts).
Kalaripayattu involves rigorous physical training to enhance strength, flexibility, and agility. Practitioners perform various exercises and movements, such as kicks, strikes, jumps, and rolls, to develop their physical prowess.
Kalaripayattu has different techniques like meipayattu (physical body exercise), vadipayattu (fight using sticks), valpayattu (fight using swords) and verumkaiprayoga (bare hand exercise). Kalari treatment is a part of the curriculum. In Kalaripayattu, the first exercise is body exercise. Oil massage is an integral portion of body exercise. The body is well oiled. This is done to fine tune the body for the next step that is payattu (fight). Body movements together with oral instructions are practiced. There are 8 to 16 payattu (fight) during different stages. Physical body exercise is followed by kolpayattu in which sticks of different lengths are used. This involves defensive and offensive techniques. Here also oral instructions are given.
Kalaripayattu includes training with a variety of traditional weapons, including swords, urumi, daggers, spears, staffs, and more. The techniques for using these weapons are an integral part of the martial art. The target areas in angathari are head, chest, back, stomach and the portion below the knee.
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Apart from weapon training, Kalaripayattu also includes unarmed combat techniques. Practitioners learn strikes, kicks, locks, and grappling maneuvers.
Like many martial arts, Kalaripayattu has specific forms or patterns known as “katas” or “sequences.” These forms help practitioners practice and refine their techniques.
The martial art incorporates controlled breathing techniques and meditation practices to enhance concentration, focus, and overall well-being.
Kalaripayattu includes traditional Indian healing practices such as massage and herbal treatments. These are used to treat injuries sustained during training and to improve overall health. Kalaripayattu’s own system of medicine based on Ayurveda and Kalarichikitsa (kalari treatment) is very unique. Ancient gurus had framed the system. It includes marmachikitsa, thirumal and vyayamachikitsa (physical exercise).
Practitioners of Kalaripayattu often wear distinctive traditional attire, including loincloths and belts, which are part of the cultural heritage of the martial art.
Kalaripayattu is not only a combat art but also a part of Kerala’s cultural heritage. It has gained recognition and popularity both in India and internationally, with schools and training centers offering instruction to people interested in learning this ancient martial art. Additionally, Kalaripayattu performances are often featured in cultural events and demonstrations, showcasing its dynamic and acrobatic movements.
