What is Kalaripayattu? – Know Full Details – Origin, Meaning, Methods, Latest News, 10 Key Facts, UPSC Questions
Table of Contents
Introduction to Kalaripayattu UPSC
Recently, India’s Indigenous Martial Arts ‘Kalaripayattu’ was in news because now Kalaripayattu is getting popular in Haryana state of India. Updates related to this news make Kalaripayattu in headlines.
Knowing about India’s most popular martial arts technique known as Kalaripayattu will help those who are preparing for competitive examinations in India. If you are also preparing for major competitive examinations of India such as UPSC, SSC and much more, then this blog will help you to get almost everything about Kalaripayattu you must have to be aware of.
So, Let’s start-
Read Also | What is India’s Invasive Lantana Camara Plant?
Read Also | What is Dusted Apollo?
Why Kalaripayattu in News? – Kalaripayattu UPSC
Kalaripayattu is making headlines because it’s gaining popularity in unexpected places like Haryana, where wrestling and boxing are more traditional sports.
The martial art’s inclusion in major events like the Khelo India Youth Games has brought attention to its unique mix of agility, self-defense, and cultural significance.
Athletes like Mohini Dahiya and Aryan Goyat embracing Kalaripayattu highlight a shift in interests, breaking away from the usual sports norms in the region. This surge in popularity is putting Kalaripayattu in the spotlight, making it a noteworthy topic in today’s sports news.
Source: The Hindu
What is Kalaripayattu?
Kalaripayattu is an ancient Indian martial art form that originated in the southern state of Kerala. It is considered one of the oldest fighting systems in existence and is believed to have been developed in the 3rd century BCE.
Kalaripayattu incorporates strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry, and healing techniques. The practice involves physical conditioning, flexibility training, and mastery of various weapons. The martial art is not only a means of self-defense but also a holistic system that includes elements of yoga and Ayurveda.
Kalaripayattu performances often showcase elaborate choreographed sequences and are deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heritage of Kerala.
Overview of Kalaripayattu – Origin of Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu, also known as Kalari, traces its origins to the 11th–12th century CE in Kerala, a state on the southwestern coast of India. The term “Kalaripayattu” is a combination of two Malayalam words: “kalari,” meaning training ground or battleground, and “payattu,” referring to the training in martial arts.
This translates to “practice in the arts of the battlefield.” According to legend, Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, is credited with learning Kalaripayattu from Shiva and teaching it to the early settlers of Kerala. Another legend associates the war deity Ayyappa with learning Kalaripayattu in Muhamma’s Cheerappanchira Kalari.
The martial art’s early history suggests influences from Tamil combat techniques and Sanskritic Dhanur Vedic traditions, establishing Kalaripayattu as a rich and ancient fighting system.
Meaning of Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu, or Kalari, emerges from 11th–12th century CE Kerala, India, blending Malayalam words “kalari” (battlefield) and “payattu” (martial arts training). Its essence lies in “practice in the arts of the battlefield.” This ancient martial art encompasses diverse combat techniques and weaponry skills, reflecting a rich historical tapestry.
History of Kalaripayattu – Kalaripayattu History UPSC
We have added a comprehensive history of Kalaripayattu below-
1. Legendary Origins
Explore the mythical beginnings of Kalaripayattu, where legends attribute its creation to Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, and Ayyappa, a war deity from Kerala. Understand the significance of these legends in shaping the martial art’s cultural and historical roots.
2. Early History and Influences
Delve into the martial traditions of ancient Kerala by examining the early history of Kalaripayattu. Understand its precursors, including Tamil combat techniques of the Sangam period and Sanskritic Dhanur Vedic traditions, shedding light on the formative influences that shaped Kalaripayattu.
3. Late Medieval Period (c.1100 CE–c.1500 CE)
Uncover the developments of Kalaripayattu during the late medieval period, including its institutionalization in villages and its role in military training. Explore the martial sects and communities in Kerala that embraced Kalaripayattu and its use in settling disputes through combat.
4. Early Modern and Colonial Period (c.1500–c.1900 CE)
Examine the accounts of European explorers and their observations on Kalaripayattu during the early modern and colonial period. Understand its role in society, as described by figures like Duarte Barbosa, Hendrik van Rheede, and Jacob Canter Visscher.
5. Decline of Kalaripayattu
Investigate the factors contributing to the decline of Kalaripayattu, particularly during the 17th century with the advent of firearms and European invasions. Explore how these technological changes impacted the traditional martial art and its role in Kerala.
6. Resurgence in Modern Times (20th–21st Century)
Trace the resurgence of Kalaripayattu in the 20th century, examining how gurukkals like Chambadan Veetil Narayanan Nair and Chirakkal T. Sreedharan Nair played crucial roles in preserving and revitalizing the martial art. Explore its modern applications, including its incorporation into dance forms and recent initiatives like The Kalaripayattu Academy.
What is Chuvadu & Vadivu?
About Chuvadu
Chuvadu refers to the basic steps in Kalaripayattu, the traditional Indian martial art. These steps are fundamental to the practice and serve as the building blocks for more advanced movements. Named after animals, Chuvadu involves a series of steps that practitioners learn to execute with precision.
Each step has its own style, combination, and function, contributing to the diverse range of techniques within Kalaripayattu. The mastery of Chuvadu is essential for students to progress in their training and develop a strong foundation in the martial art.
About Vadivu
Vadivu, on the other hand, encompasses postures or stances in Kalaripayattu. These postures are the foundational positions that practitioners adopt during training and combat. Like Chuvadu, Vadivu postures are often named after animals, and there are typically eight forms presented in various styles.
Each stance has its distinct style, combination, and functional application in different situations. Vadivu is crucial for maintaining balance, stability, and readiness for executing offensive or defensive maneuvers. Together, Chuvadu and Vadivu form integral components of Kalaripayattu, contributing to its unique and diverse martial techniques.
Styles in Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala, encompasses various styles that contribute to its rich and diverse heritage. Different styles within Kalaripayattu highlight unique techniques, movements, and regional variations. While the specific names and characteristics of these styles may vary, here are some broad categories or styles commonly recognized:
1. Northern Style (Vadakkan Kalari)
- Originating from the northern regions of Kerala, this style is characterized by its distinctive techniques and training methods.
- Known for its emphasis on physical strength, agility, and weapon-based training.
2. Southern Style (Thekkan Kalari)
- Hailing from the southern parts of Kerala, this style exhibits variations in techniques and forms.
- Noteworthy for its adaptability to different fighting scenarios and strategies.
3. Central Style (Madhya Kalari)
- Representing the central regions of Kerala, this style incorporates a mix of northern and southern elements.
- Balances both barehanded techniques and weapons training, showcasing versatility.
4. Animal-Form Styles
- Kalaripayattu often includes styles inspired by animal movements. Practitioners imitate the agility and strength of animals in their techniques.
- Examples include the “Elephant Style,” “Tiger Style,” and “Snake Style.”
5. Traditional Styles (Sampradayam)
- These styles are deeply rooted in specific lineages and traditional schools of Kalaripayattu.
- Gurukkals (teachers) pass down these styles through generations, preserving unique techniques and practices.
6. Regional Variations
- Different regions within Kerala may have their own variations and adaptations of Kalaripayattu.
- These regional styles can showcase diverse approaches to combat and self-defense.
7. Weapon-Specific Styles
- Some styles within Kalaripayattu may focus extensively on specific weapons, such as the sword, staff, or spear.
- Weaponry training often involves intricate techniques and forms.
8. Contemporary Interpretations
- In modern times, some practitioners may incorporate contemporary elements or adapt Kalaripayattu to suit evolving needs.
- These interpretations may blend traditional techniques with practical self-defense approaches.
Marmashashtram in Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala, incorporates Marmashastram, a profound system emphasizing the precise striking of vital points known as marmam. Key aspects of this practice shed light on its significance within Kalaripayattu:
1. Deadly Precision
Seasoned Kalari warriors were reputed to incapacitate or even fatally harm opponents with precision strikes to specific marmam points.
2. Selective Teaching
Marmashastram techniques are selectively taught, reserved for the most promising and responsible students to prevent misuse and uphold ethical standards.
3. Discouraging Misuse
The selective nature of teaching aims to discourage the misuse of this powerful technique, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with such knowledge.
4. Marma Treatment
Beyond combat, Marmashastram plays a role in marma treatment (marmachikitsa), drawing connections to Ayurveda and Siddha medicine.
5. Ancient Roots
The concept of marmam finds its earliest mention in the Rig Veda, where the god Indra defeated Vritra by striking his vital points with a vajra.
6. Vedic and Epic References
References to vital points are scattered across Vedic and epic sources, showcasing the deep-rooted knowledge and practice of attacking and defending vital points.
7. Sushruta’s Contribution
Sushruta, an ancient sage (c. 6th century BC), identified and defined 107 vital points in the human body in his Sushruta Samhita, with 64 classified as lethal if struck properly.
8. Ayurvedic Connection
Sushruta’s work formed the foundation for Ayurveda, and the emphasis on vital points in Indian martial arts, including Varma kalai and Marma adi.
9. Historical Criticisms
Critics have questioned the verifiability of marmam techniques when applied against neutral outsiders, highlighting debates within the martial arts community.
10 Key Facts about Kalaripayattu
We have added 10 Key Facts about Kalaripayattu below-
| Facts | Information |
| Origin Country | India |
| Origin Place | Kerala, southwestern coast of India |
| Who Invented | Parashurama, credited as the founder of Kalaripayattu |
| Subnames | Kalari, Kalari Payat |
| Meaning | “Practice in the arts of the battlefield” |
| Focus | Hybrid martial art with diverse combat techniques, weapons, and conditioning exercises |
| Hardness | Incorporates both full-contact and semi-contact elements |
| Practitioners | Agastya, Ayyappan, Parashurama, among others, with significant influence on Kalaripayattu’s development. |
| Styles | Northern Style (Vadakkan Kalari) and Southern Style (Thekkan Kalari) |
| Etymology | “Kalari” + “Payattu” = “Battlefield practice” |
FAQs on Kalaripayattu – Kalaripayattu UPSC Questions
Question-1: What is Kalaripayattu?
Answer. Kalaripayattu is an ancient Indian martial art that originated in Kerala, featuring diverse combat techniques, weapons, and conditioning exercises.
Question-2: When did Kalaripayattu originate?
Answer. Kalaripayattu dates back to the 11th–12th century CE, with its roots embedded in the battlefield combat techniques of ancient Kerala.
Question-3: Who is credited with inventing Kalaripayattu?
Answer. Parashurama, an avatar of the Hindu deity Vishnu, is generally regarded as the founder of Kalaripayattu.
Question-4: What does the name Kalaripayattu mean?
Answer. The term is derived from two Malayalam words – “kalari” meaning training ground or battleground, and “payattu” meaning training in martial arts. It translates to “practice in the arts of the battlefield.”
Question-5: Is Kalaripayattu a full-contact martial art?
Answer. Yes, Kalaripayattu incorporates both full-contact and semi-contact elements, making it a diverse and comprehensive martial art form.
Question-6: Are there different styles of Kalaripayattu?
Answer. Yes, Kalaripayattu is practiced in two main styles: Vadakkan Kalari (northern style) and Thekkan Kalari (southern style), each with its unique characteristics.
Question-7: Who are some notable historical practitioners of Kalaripayattu?
Answer. Agastya, Ayyappan, and Parashurama are credited with influencing and practicing Kalaripayattu in its early stages.
Question-8: Is Kalaripayattu recognized as an Olympic sport?
Answer. No, Kalaripayattu is not currently recognized as an Olympic sport.
Question-9: What is the significance of the guru-shishya tradition in Kalaripayattu?
Answer. Kalaripayattu is taught in accordance with the Indian guru-shishya system, emphasizing constant learning, adaptation, and improvement of techniques.
Question-10: How does Kalaripayattu integrate traditional elements like weaponry and armor?
Answer. Kalaripayattu includes strikes, kicks, grappling, preset forms, weaponry, and healing methods. Warriors typically use light body armor, focusing on maintaining flexibility and mobility.
