Exploration of Traditional Martial Art Form of Kerala

Aditi Paul:- [28/July/23] Kerala is a land of blooming tourism and flaunts its rich culture, tradition, history, and many more. One of the unique specialties of Kerala is the practice of several martial art forms, such as Kalaripayattu, Velankanni, Njaninmel Kali, Parisa Kali, Valeru, Onathullal and Kunderu. Among these, Kalaripayattu is the most ancient martial art form in the world and its origin is marked from North Kerala. Kalaripayattu is also known as the ‘Mother of All Martial Arts’ and is practiced in a scientific way.

A quick note on the other art forms

1. Velankanni - Velankanni has its origin in the Travancore region and is believed to have been practiced by the Pandavas and the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra battle. This martial art method involves rigorous physical training and practice of weapon use. In the present era, Velankanni is performed during festivals at Ambalapuzha, Cherthala and Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple in Trivandrum.

2. Parisa Kali - This is somewhat similar to Velankanni, except for its mention from the Mahabharata times. Parisa Kali has its genesis in North Malabar.

3. Njaninmel Kali & Kunderu - These two martial art forms are performed during the temple festivals of Kerala. Njaninmel Kali involves walking on the tight ropes.

4. Valeru - Valeru exhibits the highly dexterous use of swords for combat.

5. Onathullal - Nowadays it is practiced during the Onam festival. This martial art form is performed without the use of weapons.

Kalaripayattu - the most prominent martial art method in Kerala

Kalaripayattu is the combination of two words - Kalari (place of combat) and Payattu (fighting). Kalaripayattu is the balanced coordination of science, art and medicine. The various movements of Kalaripayattu have resemblances to the fighting techniques of animals. The trainer of Kalaripayattu is referred to as Gurukkal and is a very significant person in the life of the trainee. The Guru gives a special kind of massage using medicated oil to the trainees prior to the onset of training. The most important aspect of this martial art form is discipline, which is imbibed by the learners eventually.
Kalaripayattu is a self-defense method and its practice necessitates the knowledge of vital body parts known as Marmas such as the head, stomach, back, chest, and the portion below the knee. The learners are expected to be always obedient to their Guru. With consistent training, the trainees of Kalaripayattu gradually learn to master focus, concentration, confidence, fearlessness, discipline and bravery. Before beginning the practice, the trainees from all castes and religions worship the deity.
Kalaripayattu teaches to fight empty-handed and the art of weaponry with curved sticks, short sticks, long staffs, spears, daggers, swords & shields, flexible swords and mace. The various techniques of Kalaripayattu involve Meipayattu (physical body exercise), Vadipayattu (fight using sticks), Valpayattu (fight using swords) and Verumkaiprayoga (bare hand exercise) and are taught in various stages.

A brief history - According to ancient folklore, Kalaripayattu was discovered during the 3rd century BCE and was founded by the Hindu saint Parasurama who is also believed to be the very first Gurukkal. Kalaripayattu was practised most by the South Indian dynasties of Cholas, Pandyas and Cheras during the 100 years of battle between them. From 13th - 16th centuries Kalaripayattu was in high prominence and was the custom of Kerala, where every child above the age of seven will learn the techniques of Kalaripayattu. However, with the British invasion, the practice of martial art was banned to prevent rebellion from Indians, though many continued to practice it secretly in rural areas. After Independence, Kalaripayattu got back its lost glory and is presently in exercise in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Sri Lanka.

During your Kerala Tour Booking one must visit at least one Kalaripayattu centre to witness the performance of the graceful martial art form. The places to watch Kalaripayattu performances in Kerala include Kadathanadan Kalari, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Mudra Cultural Centre, Greenix Village, Kalari Kshethra, C.V.N. Kalari, ENS Kalari and The Kalariyil Dharmikam.