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WHAT IS KALARIPAYATTU?

Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art that predates almost all other forms of combat training. The legends claim it to be as old as Kerala itself, originating in the Southern Indian state at the moment of its creation by Lord Vishnu. The story goes that Parasurama, an avatar of Vishnu, upon winning a great battle, threw his mighty axe into the sea. From where it landed in the water arose a steep and mountainous but very green and fertile land. This new land was called Kerala. To enable Kerala’s new inhabitants to protect themselves Parasurama taught them the noble and divine art of Kalaripayattu. The true origins of Kalaripayattu are not as well documented but it is thought to date back several thousand years, most likely beginning, as the legend suggests, in Kerala. The spread of Kalaripayattu out of Kerala directly caused the creation of several Eastern martial arts that still exist today. Karate, Kung-Fu, Ju-Jitsu and many other recognisable fighting styles are all adaptations of Kalaripayattu – the mother of martial arts.

History records that it was practiced regularly by the ancient warrior caste of Kerala – the Nairs – in times of war and peace to maintain their fighting prowess. The word Kalari literally translates to battlefield. The origins in war can be clearly seen reflected in the weapons used in training: knives, daggers, spears and swords, the classic weapons used on the battlegrounds of India, long before the musket and cannon were introduced. 

Injury is, of course, a direct consequence of war and, as a result, the fighting aspect of Kalaripayattu has evolved side by side with the healing facet of the sport. The medical side of Kalaripayattu is a form of Ayurvedic medicine adapted to fit the demands of rigorous physical exercise and injuries sustained in war. 

Training ranges from weapons free self defence and stamina exercises, through sparring with wooden sticks, to battling with dangerous metal weapons such as the spear or the lethal Urumi. The vigorous training regime of Kalaripayattu is excellent at improving fitness and flexibility as well as strength and hand-eye coordination. Furthermore it focuses on both mental and spiritual improvement, teaching focus meditation. 

The Revered Journey to Becoming a Kalaripayattu Gurukkal: Mastering Mind, Body, and Spirit

Introduction: Kalaripayattu, often hailed as the mother of all martial arts, stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions. At the pinnacle of this art form lies the esteemed title of Gurukkal, a designation earned only after twelve years of rigorous training. Beyond the combat techniques, a Gurukkal embodies a holistic approach to wellness, encompassing Ayurvedic medicine, Kalari massages, herbal cultivation, yoga, meditation, and spiritual guidance.

The Path to Mastery: The journey to becoming a Gurukkal is no ordinary feat. It demands unwavering dedication, discipline, and a profound understanding of the interconnectedness between mind, body, and spirit. The aspirant must navigate through a comprehensive curriculum, delving into the intricacies of Kalaripayattu’s fighting routines while simultaneously immersing themselves in the profound wisdom of Ayurveda and the healing arts.

Training includes not only physical prowess but also the cultivation of mental fortitude and spiritual enlightenment. The student evolves into a well-rounded practitioner, capable of wielding the power of Kalaripayattu for both offensive and healing purposes.

The Hidden Knowledge of Marma Points: Central to the Gurukkal’s mastery is the guarded knowledge of marma points—critical junctures where nerves and tissues intersect within the body. This secret knowledge can be a potent tool for inflicting harm upon an opponent but is predominantly harnessed for healing purposes. The sacred responsibility of preserving and passing down this wisdom is entrusted to the most mature and responsible students on the brink of earning their Gurukkal title.

The Master’s Decision: The culmination of twelve years of intensive training is marked by the Master’s decision to confer the title of Gurukkal upon their student. This significant event, akin to a coronation, unfolds in the presence of friends, family, and the Kalaripayattu school. Symbolism plays a pivotal role as the student is crowned with a handful of rice, echoing the rituals of ancient Indian kings’ coronation ceremonies.

The Humble Oath: In an act of profound humility, the newly-anointed Gurukkal touches their head to the Master’s feet, pledging allegiance and respect. This symbolic gesture signifies not only the passing of the mantle but also the acknowledgment of the Gurukkal’s perpetual role as a lifelong learner and guardian of Kalaripayattu’s legacy. The pledging of the sword is a symbolic act, symbolizing the dedication to the path of righteousness and protection.

The Grand Demonstration: The Gurukkal, now officially anointed, showcases their skills in Kalaripayattu, a mesmerizing display of agility, precision, and artistry. The audience witnesses the culmination of over a decade of relentless training, a testament to the mastery achieved under the guidance of the revered Master.

Conclusion: Becoming a Kalaripayattu Gurukkal is not just about mastering a martial art; it is a transformative journey that encompasses physical prowess, mental acuity, and spiritual awakening. The title is a recognition of the individual’s commitment to preserving and propagating the ancient art form, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come. The Gurukkal stands as a guardian of not only Kalaripayattu’s physical techniques but also its profound philosophy, embodying the essence of a true warrior—disciplined, enlightened, and dedicated to the greater good.

THE WAY OF KALARIPAYATTU


Kalaripayattu initially was an unrefined mode of combat which, in later periods, became a method of self-purification and self-realization. Passed down from generation to generation, the teacher and holder of the lineage is called the Gurukkal or master. The Gurukkal is responsible for the students’ discipline and development, and is dedicated to the advancement of Kalaripayattu knowledge and practice.

Self-defense is the principle of kalaripayattu, rather than attack. If the kalaripayattu warrior can avoid combat, this is the best technique. In kalaripayattu, there are thousands of self-defense techniques such as grappling, kicks, jumps, locks and other movements. Kalaripayattu training is given to students through poetic vocal directions called Vaithari. The student is taught principles and techniques of meditation and eventually given the honour of offering kalari pooja.

To learn more about the spiritual aspects of kalari, please see our Kalaripayattu Spirituality page.

Rituals In Kalari

While it might not seem like it on the surface the main aim of Kalaripayattu is not about perfecting the art of fighting or weaponry; the main aim of Kalaripayattu is locate, align with, and release the spiritual energy that lies within all of us. This can be seen in the huge amount of ritual that surrounds training in the Kalari. The Kalari itself, as a requirement, contains four shrines in the corner called poothara. The first is a small set of seven steps representing the seven chakras. Next to this is the Gurutara – a small platform in remembrance of all past Gurus. Following this is the Ganapathitara, a platform to honour Vikneshara (also called Ganesh or Ganapathi), son of Shiva and Remover of Obstacles, whose blessing is sought before each training session. Finally there is the Ayudhathara, which is dedicated to Shiva (also called Ayudhabairavan), Protecter of Weapons, whose blessing is also required before training can begin.

Upon entering the Kalari to begin training, the student must salute the ground of the Kalari and the Kalari goddess before going pay respects at each of the shrines. Traditionally, but not necessarily always, the student will then touch the Guru’s feet to begin the session. The education of a student in Kalaripayattu requires a great deal of discipline as well as a sacred relationship between the student and the Master who, throughout a training session, will lead the student in a series of prayers, salutations and meditations.

The chanting of mantras is also important in the process of becoming a Kalaripayattu master. Some mantras are kept a closely guarded secret by the Gurukkal and only passed on to the student near the completion of their training.

Along with the knowledge of the mantras, the final piece of information that is given to the student by the Master is that of the marma points. The marma points are points of the body that can be used to heal physical ailments and hold great importance in Kalaripayattu. They can also be used to cause great harm and even death if manipulated in a certain way. For this reason they are the last thing to be taught before a student can complete their training – the Master must be absolutely sure that the student is capable of holding such dangerous knowledge with maturity and restraint. Once these have been learnt, with the Master’s permission, the student may become a Gurukkal.

Vadakkan Kalaripayattu Systems

  There Are Three Types Of Systems In Vadakkan Kalaripayattu. They Are Pillathangi, Arappakkai And Vatten Thirippu.

1. Pillathangi

 Kaikuthipayattu (it is a type of Kalaripayattu practise exists only in Kadathanadan Kalari and is based on body flexibility. It is mainly performed with hands and a type in meyppayattu)  in Kadathanadan Kalaripayattu genarally falls into Pillathangi system. Pillathangi system of Kalaripayattu is practised in kolthari(it is a vocal music about the attacks and counterattacks in Kalaripayattu using wooden weapons), ankathari (performances and practices with metal weapons) and in verumkai(bare hands) in Kalaripayattu. The hands should be in a position of holding a baby (pilla) close to the chest. It is known as aacharakkai (it is a part of bare hand practise. That means, in ancient days, people of lower class used to close their mouth with hands and place their hands on the chest to show their respect while speaking to the upper class people.) It turned here in Kalaripayattu as a step of defence. It is a state which is highly secure and easy to perform and defend. It also seems to greet and respect the enemy and helps to avoid a confrontation. It doesn’t matter the type of tricks used but should be in a position of holding a baby to the chest. It also has a very strategic feature in kalaripayattu. Bringing/holding the hands to the chest increases the speed and agility of the performance. Hands should be folded back to the chest immediately after a defend or trick as soon as the enemy can see and think of. Experts in Kalaripayattu opine that it can further be applied in a way that the enemy never expected.

2. Arappakkai

  Arappakkai is of 12 types in meipayattu (it means tricks and performances in Kalaripayattu with body. It is a combination of body flexibilities. It also includes jumps, skips and exercises in order to make the body more flexible) in Kalaripayattu. Vettu(making wounds on the body with hand or weapon),thanjappayattu(tricky steps planned and executed by observing the enemy) and pakarchakkal(combination of different kicks and exercises with legs) are of 12 types each. Meyppayattu includes body movements,jumps(leaps), style(symmetry), changes, ascents(climbs), bouncing(leap over), volte-face,squats, agility, flexibilities etc. Based on vaaythari. Meyppayattu is a combination of systematic practices in Kalaripayattu based on rhythm, vision and attention.

3. Vatten thirippu

 This system of  Kalaripayattu gives priority to entertainment. This third system of Kalaripayattu includes meipayattu, arumathappayattu, iruthikkal(flexible movements of evade at a sitting position),bending,volte-face, skip over, jumps,throws, whisking wooden sticks,vaalvali(swing a sharp sword back and forth around the body)etc.and manoeuvre with weapons. Vatten thirippu is a store-house of body flexibilities. Kazhchayankam, a kalaripayattu   practice belongs to vatten thirippu, was performed to excite the audience before the ankam  and during the intervals of the Ankam between the Kalaripayattu warriors (chekavar).

Activities in Kalaripayattu

                 Usually children are admitted to the kalari for Kalaripayattu training at the age of seven. Age seven is a stage of growth. It’s an important stage of child’s mental, physical and intellectual growth and of character formation. After completing 14 consecutive years of Kalaripayattu training, they have become perfect warriors and practitioners.

Features of starting Kalaripayattu training for the first time

  There are certain procedures for a child to start Kalaripayattu training for the first time. The child along with his/her guardian gives dakshina(a ceremonial offering which includes betel leaf and arecanut) to the trainers (Gurukkal) at the entrance of the Kalari. Later he/she touches and venerates the trainer’s feet and the Kalari (land on which everything is based); and turns right to venerate Poothara (a platform of 6 layers. This 6 layers represent 6 chakras of the human spinal cord according to the history of Kalaripayattu and Yogasastra. The chakras are the energy hubs in the body);then place right leg forth and venerates guruthara ( it is a divine platform in memory of all teachers/aacharyas from the beginning to the present) and ganapathithara ( divine platform to worship Ganapati to remove the obstacles). He should do the same veneration even in the absence of trainers whenever he came for Kalaripayattu practice.

The Impotrance of right hand and leg in Kalari

  Entering the Kalari with right leg, turning right,bow on right knee etc.have great importance in Kalaripayattu. Hindu puranas,which is a part of Indian culture,believe that moorthis(deities) such as Vishnu,Guru and Ganapathi occupy/dwell on right shoulder, knee and hand. Therefore much importance is given to the right side in the occasions of good deeds, performances, pradakshinam(a religious ceremony that is going round on the right direction) held in temples etc.Kalaripayattu, which follows the Indian culture, also gives importance to the right side.

The Importance of Applying Oil on the body in Kalaripayattu

should apply on the whole body before starting Kalaripayattu training. This oil enters the body and travels rapidly throughout the body through internal sources.It’s power will immediately reach at the centre of the head(forehead) even the oil applied on the sole of the feet. Applying oil for Kalaripayattu training is helpful to make fatty people slim and vice versa.

  On the first day the trainer/Gurukkal applies kalari oil on forehead of the child,who came for Kalaripayattu training. Later dedicates on the place of worship in the Kalari. Then applies oil on the sole;rubs oil on the right leg under the knee and on the upper body. Later does the same on the left leg;then applies the oil on both hands;then from navel to neck;on shoulder and back of the body.

  Kalari Mukkoot oil (oil made of ayurvedic medines with three types of oil) is usually used by children on their body before starting Kalaripayattu practice. It is specially prepared by the Gurukkal from the kalari itself. Applying this oil, which is made by mixing various Ayurvedic medicines, helps in relieving the fatigue caused by excessive increase in body temperature while practising Kalaripayattu. It also softens the skin and reduces the muscle pain.

The Importance of Wearing / Tying Kacha in Kalari

   Details  regarding the length of Kacha (a kind of long cloth worn around the waist as an upper garment especially in Kalarippayattu) worn by the warriors during the time of Kalaripayattu practice can be seen as 64 cubit, 32 cubit, 21 cubit,16 cubit etc. in different parts of Vadakkan songs. Usually a Kacha of 21 cubit length and one span (chaan) width made of cotton cloth is used in Kalaripayattu practice. 32 cubit long Kacha is also used for Kalaripayattu practice in rare. Kacha is not used in many Kalaries due to the use of lankoti ( a kind of undercloth covering the genitals, fixed by bands strung around the waist).

 Kacha should have good strength and softness. Wearing Kacha  expert is very helpful for a Kalaripayattu expert in any kind of jumps,squats,volte-face etc; to lift the opposer to attack or to throw; and to prepare well physically and mentally. The Kacha protects from injuries and slipping on the vertebrae of the spine during the time of Kalaripayattu pracice. In addition, it is possible to store air for easy jumpings and turnings by wearing the Kacha for Kalari practitioners / warriors. In Kerala, even those who are not trained in Kalaripayattu are used figuratively in the sense that they are ready for anything after wearing a kacha. However,the expert Gurukkals / trainers in Kalaripayattu are of the opinion that rigorous practice is inevtable by wearing kacha.

Kalaripayattu Warriors in the Vadakkan Pattukal

The Vadakkan Pattukal is a collection of ballads that describe the adventures and accomplishments of some of the most respected Kalaripayattu warriors of medieval Kerala, India. The series of songs, twenty-four in total, were passed down by word of mouth for centuries before being written down. Pananmar (ancient Indian bards) would travel from village to village to recount the tales of famous Kalaripayattu practitioners. The focus of the songs is mainly on warriors from northern Malabar and the ancient areas of Kadathanada, Kolathunadu and Wayanad. The majority of these warriors came from two families: the Puthooram and the Tacholi Manikoth. The tales of some of the warriors are summarised below:

Kannappa Chekavar

As the legends go Kannappa Chekavar was the head of the Puthooram household in Kadathanadu. He was renowned for being the greatest angam fighter of his time. An angam was a way of settling disputes between the ruling classes of the time. They would select a Kalaripayattu warrior to represent them in a fight to the death and whoever had hired the victor would win the argument. Not only was Kannappa the victor of seven fights, he was also the reason for twelve more being settled without a weapon being drawn and he won a further twenty-two by default after his opponents withdrew.

His two children – a son called Aromal and a daughter called Unniyarcha – were both legendary warriors in their own right and each have a song from the Vadakkan Pattukal dedicated to them.

Aromal Chekavar

The son of the famed angam fighter Kannappa, Aromal chekavar also found fame by fighting in an angam. His story is more tragic than his fathers and ends in his betrayal and cold blooded murder by his beloved cousin Chandu. Having won his first and only angam against a fearsome and devious foe – the renowned cheat Aringoder – Aromal at least died having covered himself in glory as only a great Kalaripayattu warrior can. 

Unniyarcha

The story of Unniyarcha – the most famous female Indian Kalaripayattu practitioner – is much more cheerful than that of her brother. After defiantly choosing her own husband, instead of the one her parents had chosen for her, she ends up married to a talented Kalaripayattu warrior who is also a hopeless coward. While accompanying Unniyarcha on a journey to a nearby temple he is overcome with fear at the approach of a group of local bandits. Having known all along that her useless husband would react this way the well prepared Unniyarcha drew her urumi and killed almost the entire band of gangsters. Those she spared ran back to their leader who, in fear of the great female warrior, immediately sent her a tribute so that his life might be spared. 

Unniyarcha had a son called Aromalunni who, together with Aromal Chekavar’s son Kannappanunni, avenges the death of Aromal Chekavar by hunting down Chandu and killing him. To achieve this they used a special Kalaripayattu technique that had been invented and taught to them by their grandfather Kannappa Chekavar. 

Tacholi Othenan

Tacholi Othenan of the Tacholi family also has a story that revolves around an angam. When walking on a narrow path one day Othenan came face to face with a famous Kalaripayattu warrior (called Chindan Nambiar) and his students. Neither man wanted to step aside to allow the other to pass and so they walked into each other and both fell into the rice paddy next to the path. Having been embarrassed in front of his students Chindan Nambiar challenged Othenan to a fight to the death. 

After learning a special type of Kalaripayattu called Poozhikadakan, from a master called Payampally Chandu, Othenan faces Chindan Nambiar in the angam and defeats him. By popular demand from the bloodthirsty crowd he cuts off Nambiar’s head.

Other songs in the Vadakkan Pattukal tell the tales of famous Kalaripayattu warriors such as Tacholi Kunjichandu, Palattu Kunjikannan and Payampally Chandu.

The Importance of Kalaripayattu in India the Modern World

Kalripayattu was developed in ancient times as a way of preparing for and fighting in Indian battle. Back then its practice had a great significance because the skill one had in Kalaripayattu could literally mean the difference between life and death. Collectively, a kingdom’s prowess in Kalaripayattu could mean the difference between winning and losing a war. All of the weapons that are practised in Kalaripayattu were once used on the battlefields of ancient India when war was fought as hand to hand combat.

In modern times the battlefield has changed beyond recognition from its ancient equivalent – no longer are the sword, spear and dagger used to fight wars. Kalaripayattu does, however, still hold a very important place in society today. While it might not be the difference between life and death, experience in Kalaripayattu will definitely enhance one’s existence. 

Kalaripayattu practice creates a strong link between a healthy mind and a healthy body. With increased stamina and strength comes increases confidence and mental wellbeing. Kalaripayattu provides an active method of meditation. When fighting with weapons one must clear the mind of all intrusive thoughts and enter a meditative state so as to avoid being injured by one’s opponent. A boosted immune system is another benefit that holds great importance today.

Finally Kalaripayattu can help you to be a better person and teach community values. A Kalari school is like its own family and provides the students with a loving, caring, supportive community. 

STAGES OF KALARIPAYATTU

Kalaripayattu training has been practising in four stages since ancient times. These stages are known as Meythari, Kolthari, Ankathari and Verumkai. There is a difference of opinion among the Kalaripayattu Gurukkal’s in Kerala that a fifth stage is existing in Kalaripayattu apart from these four, called Kalari marma treatment ( treatment based on the vital points of the body). One can only become an expert practitioner and Gurukkal(teacher) in Kalaripayattu if he has completed atleast 12 years of training under eminent Gurukkal with great dedication. The fifth stage Kalari marma treatment also needs to be practised and be dexterous under the Gurukkal after that.

FIRST STAGE: KALARIPAYATTU TRAINING MEITHARI

maithari form of kalaripayattu training

Meythari is the first stage in  Kalaripayattu training and is also known as Meythozhil. It includes practices with hands and legs. Meythari includes different foot practices like nerkkal, veethukal, thirichukal, konkal, iruthikkal, akamkal, puramkal, chadippuramkal etc. and different jumps and turns like volte-face,kick and raise, sinistrality and right turn jumps, othiram ( akind of vault in the air), tread the ground turn etc. and different steps like vattachuvadu, neettachuvadu, konchuvadu, ottakkalchuvadu, aakkachuvadu, neekkachuvadu etc. One can achieve a complete flexibility of body and a control over the body through practising Meythari, the first stage of Kalaripayattu training.

Techniques learned from birds and animals like kukkudavadivu, malsyavadivu, simhavadivu, sarppavadivu, gajavadivu, aswavadivu etc. and 12 different body skills are also practising in Meythari. Moreover, a Kalaripayattu practitioner can attain body flexibility, mobility, the power to concentrate and dexterity, through various hand-to-hand combat and varoius pakarchakkal.

Vadivu in Kalaripayattu

Vadivu means beauty, cleanliness/tidy and shape. Vadivu in Kalaripayattu means the configuration of the body posture that is adopted as part of the steps. These adopted vadivu may related to the  mobile skills exposed successfully by any living creatures during the time of attacks. Different opinions are there among the kalari Gurukkal about the actual number of vadivu drew out by various living creatures for self protection.

Ashta vadivu in Kalaripayattu

Mainly there are eight vadivu in Kalaripayattu. These are known in the name Ashta vadivu. Eight vadivu are Gajavadivu (elephant), Simhavadivu (lion), Aswavadivu (horse), Varahavadivu (wild boar), Kukkudavadivu (rooster/cock), Mayooravadivu (peacock), Sarpavadivu (serpent) and Malsyavadivu (fish). Some Kalaripayattu gurukkal also explained about another vadivu called Marjaravadivu (cat).

SECOND STAGE KALARIPAYATTU TRAINING : KOLTHARI

kolhtari is a part kalaripayattu training

Kolthari is the second stage in Kalaripayattu training.It comprises kettyari(length 6 span), sareeravadi (7span), pantheeran(length 12span), muchan(3span), otta valavu(18 inches), marmavadi(6 inches), chottachan etc.

A variety of rod swings are there in Kolthari. Most of the blows are to beat the enemy. Long rods are using for this. Gurus are used to say no one can aim a stone at a Kalaripayattu practitioner who is expert in rod swings.

After Meythari, the next stage of kalaripayattu is Kolthari, the practice of wooden weapons. Wooden weapons are less lethal than metal weapons and so weapons training is begun with them. Weapons training is at the heart of kalaripayattu, as the art grew during the feudal times of ancient India, when battle was a regular part of life and weapons was unavoidable. Weapons training means practicing against another student in the kalari, and requires skill and confidence to master. In ancient times, a great many different wooden weapons were used, and the main ones are still used in kalaripayattu India today.





THIRD STAGE KALARI TRAINING : ANKATHARI

Ankathari is a part of kalaripayattu training

Ankathari is the third stage in Kalaripayattu training. It includes attacks and counter attacks using metal weapons. The most important among these were sword and shield in ancient days. A Kalaripayattu practitioner is attaining bravery and boldness through practising Ankathari, the third stage of Kalaripayattu training. Besides the sword, sharp weapons like dagger, spear, damscene blade(urumi), churika(a double edged blade) etc. are trained in Ankathari.

This stage of sharp metal weapons is also known as ganapatiyankam, saraswatiyankam, puliyankam, kukkudankam, nagankam, naga puliyankam and vanarappadayankam. Ganapatiyankam, Saraswatiyankam and Puliyankam are performed with swords and shields and Kukkudankam with dagger. Nagankam is performed with spear and Naga puliyankam is with spear and swords. Urumi is used in Vanarappadayankam.

Metal weapons are highly lethal and are designed to kill opponents quickly, sometimes many at a time. Skills learnt in Kolthari must become very precise during Ankathari training, and applied with a great amount of focus and intent. In the beginning, students learn to fight with matched weapons. As they develop their skills the Gurukkal will guide them to see how they handle themselves when using mismatched combinations, such as dagger versus sword.





Verumkai (bare hands) Technique The Fourth Stage in Kalari Training

self defence technique training

Verumkai technique is the fourth stage in Kalaripayattu training. A well trained practitioner of the above mentioned 3 stages should practise this last stage with accuracy and discipline. Verumkai technique means to oppose an enemy with bare hands wiithout using any weapons. 

It includes all the techniques needed to win over an enemy like evade,, defend, hit, strike, foot tricks, lift and hits, lift and throws, techniques with hands that cannot be defended, techniques with focus on fingers. It also contains tricks,ability to attack on the vital points(marma) with hands, climb/ascend and alterations/changes. Its order is hand and hand,stick and hand, knife and hand.

Kalari marma treatment is practised only after the proper training in all the above mentioned stages of Kalaripayattu.

Benefits of Kalaripayattu

In this article, we will talk about the benefits of Kalaripayattu. Kalaripayattu, often referred to as Kalari in short, is the oldest martial art and has its roots to Lord Parshurama. Lord Parshuram is revered as a God, which is why Kerala is often called God’s own country, and it’s said that Kalaripayattu is a gift from Parshuram to the people of Kerala.

Kalaripayattu is a holistic martial art and is connected to nature at every point. For example, before any practice session, one starts with Bhoomi Vandanam. Bhoomi refers to mother Earth and Vandanam means salutation. This is a quick sequence of moves which serves as a perfect warm-up to the extensive training that follows it.

Physical benefits of Kalaripayattu practise

egular Kalari practice has many physical advantages. It increases one’s flexibility, stamina and breathing capacity. It forces your lungs to work harder and work better. Many people embrace Kalari for their weight management journey. It also enables better blood circulation in the body and makes toxins go out of your system. A quality Kalari session will engage all your body parts from foot to toe and will make all of your body cells active.

Kalari also improves your digestive system and metabolism. If you are doing continuous Kalari practice, it will result in you becoming faster, and more agile and will increase your balance, both physically as well as mentally.

Mental benefits of Kalaripayattu

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The practice of Kalaripayattu involves a series of intricate movements, postures, and techniques that demand precise coordination between various muscle groups. As practitioners engage in these movements, they develop a heightened sense of awareness of their own body. This heightened awareness fosters a seamless integration of physical actions with mental focus, resulting in quick reflexes. The practitioner learns to anticipate movements and respond swiftly, a skill that extends beyond the confines of the Kalari, or training arena, into various aspects of daily life.

A fundamental principle of Kalaripayattu is the belief in the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. The practice is not solely about physical prowess but emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between physical health and mental acuity. Regular and sincere engagement in Kalaripayattu contributes to overall health, enhancing both the body and mind simultaneously.

Physical health has long been recognized as a cornerstone of mental well-being. The cardiovascular benefits, increased flexibility, and muscular strength gained through Kalaripayattu contribute to a robust physical foundation. This, in turn, positively impacts mental health. Scientific studies have consistently shown the positive correlation between physical activity and mental well-being, with exercise being linked to the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers.

Moreover, Kalaripayattu is often likened to a form of meditation. The intricate and demanding nature of the practice necessitates complete concentration. Practitioners cannot afford to be distracted, as losing focus could lead to injuries. In this way, Kalaripayattu becomes a meditative experience, requiring a deep connection between the mind and the body. The discipline instills a state of mindfulness, where practitioners are fully present in the moment, free from the distractions of the external world.

The mental benefits of Kalaripayattu extend to improved focus and concentration power. The necessity to maintain unwavering attention during practice sharpens the mind, fostering a heightened ability to concentrate. This enhanced focus is transferable to various aspects of life, aiding individuals in tasks that demand mental acuity, problem-solving, and decision-making.

In conclusion, Kalaripayattu transcends its status as a martial art and becomes a comprehensive system for cultivating physical and mental well-being. Through its emphasis on body-mind coordination, the practice enhances reflexes, fosters overall physical health, and improves mental faculties such as focus and concentration. The meditative nature of Kalaripayattu creates a unique synergy between the physical and mental aspects of human experience, offering practitioners a holistic path to self-improvement and well-being.

Skills learnt from Kalari

Kalari practice introduces you to a number of techniques and makes you proficient in using numerous weapons. This, in turn, removes fear from your system, teaches you self defence and makes you self-sufficient. The Kalari session ends with a sequence of exercises. Complete Kalari training including salutation, Kalari practice and then exercises makes your body fit, which results in a sense of immense pride and self-confidence. Your willpower boosts and you learn the art of patience.

If you have never attempted learning Kalaripayattu, consider giving it a sincere try and witness yourselves how it strengthens your willpower.

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