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During your tour through the Kerala backwaters, you will come across the famous martial art form of Kalaripayattu. It is the oldest form martial art practiced in Kerala. This form of martial art was developed and founded in Kerala. The form derived its name from ‘Kalari’, which is the name given to the arena where the art is practices. Practicing this art form is known as “payattu” in Malyalam. This form of martial art was initially used as a war form used in wars during olden era under the king’s rule. These days, the form is mainly used as a sport or as a part of the fitness training. Kalaripayattu is displayed or practiced in the fighting rink, which is specialized for the purpose. This was also used as a solution for conflicts between landlords or courtiers during the olden days.
The art of Kalaripayattu is quite unique. It combines the strengths of both mind and body. The form builds the strength and utilizes the same for the traditional fight. Kalaripayattu also includes forms of yoga and ayurvedha. These are used as a part of the practice. Yoga is very much a part of the fighting form of art. Ayurvedha is used in form of massages done with special oils. Focus and discipline forms a major part of the art. The form increases concentration and sharpens skills. These days, it’s more of a cultural sport than a war form.
Kalaripayattu is mainly of two forms. During your tours to Kerala backwaters, you are sure to catch some of it. The two forms of this southern martial art are Thekkan or the southern form and Vadakkan or the northern form. The two forms differ in their style of practice, speed and other features. The art involves various kinds of stages. Some of such steps before mastering the art are:
Meythari: Meythari is a stage that sharpens one’s physical strengths and mental focus. The stage includes processes like jumping, twisting, and various other movements. The stage increases the flexibility of one’s body. .
Kolthari: Kolthari is a part of Kalaripayattu that teaches the use of sticks and staffs in fighting.
Ankathari: Ankathari is a stage that teaches the student how to use metal weapons like daggers, swords, and shield in the fight.
Verumaki: Verumaki is the last and final stage of the martial art form in Kerala. In this stage use of hands and legs in self defense and fight is taught to combat enemies or defend. Wrestling, armlocks and the art of attack and defense are taught in the final stage of Kalaripayattu.
Not only does Kalaripayattu teach fighting and self defense, but it also helps you master the art of medicine, treatment and self-care using ayurveda. Students are taught to deal with their injuries and treat them using oil and special techniques. Apart from students yearning to learn this martial art form, dancers too take interest in mastering the form. After mastering all the stages of Kalaripayattu, a student can become the Gurukkal or the head of Kalaripayattu. This form of martial art is practiced all over Kerala and can be seen during the tours through Kerala backwaters.
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