The World of Kalari

It is a Hindu form of martial arts that dates back to the 12th Century, which probably makes it the oldest form of martial art. 'Kalari' has been derived from the Sanskrit word 'Kholoorika' meaning military training centre and 'Payattu' means the fight.

Kalari also refers to the specially constructed hall with ample space of fighting floor with idols of all the presiding deities of the art and photographs of the entire lineage of Gurus. The instruction and practical training in this art is imparted inside the Kalari.

Kalaripayattu as the Martial Art of Kerala

Kalaripayattu is taught by the Guru or master who is an exponent in the field. It is taught by the master to the students and is considered to be a sacred art form of Kerala. Kalaripayattu developed during the 9th century was practiced by the warrior clan of Kerala, the Nair community to defend the state and the king. The Nair community considered it an honour to die for the nation and the king.

This martial art is as much a spiritual discipline, as it is physical. It helps the students in character build up, self-confidence and adoptability to circumstances. Kalaripayattu helps systemize the flow of energy in the body.

The pupils are trained in self-discipline and physical culture. Before the pupils are initiated into the techniques of warfare, their bodies are toned pliable, agile and versatile by regular massage by feet and hands with medicated oil. Then taught to wield Kuruvadi (short sticks), spear, dagger, sword, shield, etc. The last and sophisticated piece in the weaponry is 'Urumi' a thin springy three-meter long double edged sword worn around the waist locked like a belt drawn unwound in a flick of a moment when required. It is highly lethal for an adept wielder can aim it to swirl around the neck of the opponent and, at the slightest jerk, the head will roll on the floor of the arena. Flying feats, daring onslaughts and dodging with dexterity are the ways in combat. Defensive and offensive strikes with lightning speed are its peculiarity. There are customarily eighteen 'Adavu' (tricks) in this warfare. Seventeen of them are fighting with all the weapons one by one and the eighteenth being 'Poozhikkadakan', a feat producing a cover of whirlwind of dust around the combatant by stamping the earth and swift circular movement to camouflage him from the opponent and to take him by surprise with sudden retaliatory deathblow.

The Kalari the training arena has to be built in specific dimensions. The structure of Kalari (cocoon-like) is greatly suited for training in the humid climate of Kerala. The ritualistic and spiritual atmosphere plays an important role in forming a strong character and moral attitude to the disciples. To acquire discipline and concentration, a series of symbolic rituals are practiced everyday. The training is mainly divided into three parts Maithari, Kolthari, Ankathari.