kalari

Kalari, commonly known as Kalaripayattu, is a traditional Indian martial art developed in the state of Kerala. Often described as among the oldest fighting systems in the world, its origins are embedded in Kerala’s cultural and religious traditions. Scholarly dating varies, with echoes of training and ritual found in early texts and temple inscriptions, suggesting practice may date back more than two millennia.

Practice and techniques: Kalaripayattu combines physical conditioning, combat techniques, and weapon training. Practitioners learn stances, footwork, jumps, and fluid movement, then progress to strikes, kicks, throws, and grappling. The system includes unarmed forms (verum kai) and armed drills using weapons such as daggers, swords, shields, spears, and the flexible urumi (a whip-like sword). A distinctive feature is the study of marma points—vital areas of the body—and techniques intended to exploit them, as well as a medical aspect known as kalari chikitsa, which encompasses massage and healing practices.

Training and organization: Traditionally taught by a guru in a kalari, a specialized training hall, instruction typically proceeds from basic conditioning to advanced forms and weapon work. Etiquette and philosophy emphasize discipline, respect, and harmony between body and breath. Kalari payattu exercises are often accompanied by traditional songs and music and sometimes by oil massage during preparation.

Legacy and contemporary practice: Today, Kalaripayattu is practiced across Kerala and in diaspora communities, with schools and demonstrations that preserve older forms while integrating modern training methods. It has influenced other martial arts in South Asia and beyond and remains a symbol of Kerala’s martial heritage.