Q. With reference to India’s culture and tradition, what is `Kalaripayattu’?

  • It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India
  • It is an ancient style bronze and brasswork still found in southern part of Coromandel area
  • It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar
  • It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

Answer: (d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

Kalaripayattu:
  • Kalaripayattu is a martial art that originated as a style in Kerala during the 13th Century AD. This is an ancient traditional martial art form of Kerala, India.
  • The word Kalari first appears in Sangam literature to describe both a battlefield and combat arena. 
  • Kalari, a Malayalam word, refers to a specific type of school/gymnasium/training hall where martial arts are practiced or taught.
  • The word Kalari tatt denoted a martial feat, while Kalari kozhai meant a coward in war.
  • It is considered to be one of the oldest fighting systems in existence. 
  • It is now practised in Kerala, in contiguous parts of Tamil Nadu. 
  • It was originally practised in the northern and central parts of Kerala and the Tulunadu region of Karnataka. 
  • Kalaripayattu means battlefield practices or training that takes place in an arena or a gymnasium of specific dimensions with mud flooring. 
  • Basis of all martial art forms like Karate, Kungfu was originally developed from 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. Even women practice this art.
  • Kalaripayattu 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 Kolthari.
Kalaripayattu