Martial art par excellence

Tanushree Podder

For all those who have been raving about the Japanese martial arts and the feats of Jackie Chan, we have our own brand of martial arts and a very ancient one, too. Kalaripayattu, which originated some 3000 years ago, has been mentioned in the ancient scriptures. According to some, the martial art form was first practiced by sage Parshuram, who is believed to have imparted training to a few disciples in order to protect the lands, which he had carved out of the ocean. Over time, this stretch of lands has come to be known as Kerala. Some of the scholars have traced it back to sage Agastya. Often called the ‘mother of all marital arts’, Kalaripayattu has survived for centuries.

There are many tales about the origin of the practice. Some stories subscribe the origin of other martial art forms to Kalaripayattu. Legend has it that a Buddhist monk carried the art form to China, which led to the birth of other martial art forms.

Whether it originated in the times of Parshuram or later, the fact is that it is one of the most effective forms of self-defence. The word Kalaripayattu is derived from two Malayalam words — Kalari meaning an arena and payattu meaning combat. One of the oldest and most scientific forms of combat, it is closely linked to yogic exercises and ayurvedic practices.

In the past, Nairs, the warrior community of Kerala, were the main practitioners of Kalaripayattu. It is said the martial art had also been used against the European invaders. However, the British banned the practice of the martial arts in the early 19th century after an uprising in the south of Kerala. Practicing Kalaripayattu was punished by deportation but a few dedicated practitioners continued to practice the art in secrecy. They also trained dedicated young men so that the ancient art form would survive the test of time.

Interestingly, every facet of this martial art form is based on rules laid out in the scriptures. The Kalari (arena) is designed on the tenets of vaastu shastra. Dug out at a depth of four feet, it has an east-facing entry and has specific dimensions. The floor is made of mud and in the west a seven-tiered platform, which denote the seven dhatus in the body, is constructed. Lighted lamps are placed on the steps while a lotus-shaped kumbha, representing the deity, adorns the top. Weapons like sword, shield, knives, sticks, spears, etc. are placed on the western side.

Training is rigorous with specified physical exercises, massage and meditation. The guru-shishya parampara is strictly followed and the guru is highly revered. Not just a supple body but alertness and swift reactions are mandatory for the students. Rules are strictly followed and deviance is forbidden. The martial art is a test of the body and mind as well as nerves of the combatant.

Today, most visitors to Kerala are treated to an hour-long, breathtaking demonstration of the combat skills of this martial art. Stunned silence reigns the Kalari as combatants leap, spar, grapple, wield sticks at 300 blows per minute, counter and evade opponent’s spear — thrusts, leap through blazing fire, somersault over 10 crouching volunteers and perform unbelievable stunts. No visit to God’s Own Country can be complete without a Kalaripayattu experience.

Move over taekwondo, karate and kung fu, Kalaripayattu is raising its mighty head, once again.