Kalaripayattu
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Kalaripayattu: History and Modern Use
Brief History
Kalaripayattu (often called Kalari) is one of the oldest martial arts in the world, originating in Kerala, South India, over 3,000 years ago.
Etymology: The word comes from “Kalari” (training ground or battlefield) and “Payattu” (fight or practice). Traditionally attributed to the sage Parashurama, it was developed for battlefield combat, combining strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry, and healing techniques, including marma (vital points).
During Kerala’s feudal period, Kalaripayattu was essential to warriors (Nairs) and royal guards. It also influenced temple arts and classical dance forms like Kathakali. When European powers colonized India, especially the Portuguese and British, Kalaripayattu was suppressed and even banned in the 18th–19th centuries. However, it survived secretly through family lineages and temple schools (Kalaris).
Modern-Day Use and Revival
In the 20th century, Kalaripayattu experienced a revival led by masters like C.V. Narayanan Nair and Kottackal Kanaran Gurukkal. Today, it serves multiple purposes:
1. Martial Art and Self-Defence: Practiced across Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, it teaches discipline, flexibility, and awareness — often compared to yoga in motion.
2. Cultural Heritage: Recognized as part of India’s intangible cultural heritage, with performances showcased in festivals, tourism, and films.
3. Physical and Mental Training: Used for fitness, agility, and mindfulness, blending ancient methods with modern wellness.
4. Influence on Global Martial Arts: Inspired elements of other combat systems and cinematic choreography.
5. Healing and Ayurveda: Traditional Kalari Chikitsa (healing) uses massage, herbal treatments, and marma therapy for injury recovery and conditioning.
Today
Kalaripayattu is taught in Kalari schools worldwide, from Kerala to Europe and North America. It’s respected not just as a combat art but as a holistic discipline uniting body, mind, and spirit.
Comparison with Japanese and Chinese Martial Arts
While Kalaripayattu shares similarities with other ancient martial traditions, it retains its own unique philosophy and methods. Here’s how it compares with Japanese and Chinese systems:
1. **Philosophy and Origins:**
- *Kalaripayattu* is rooted in Hindu philosophy and the concept of spiritual balance through physical mastery. It combines combat with meditation, healing, and respect for the guru (teacher).
- *Japanese martial arts* such as *Jujutsu* or *Karate* emphasize discipline, respect, and efficiency, influenced by Zen Buddhism and the Bushido code.
- *Chinese Kung Fu* blends Taoist and Buddhist principles, focusing on the harmony between body and nature.
2. **Techniques and Movement:**
- Kalaripayattu’s movements are flowing, circular, and animal-inspired, emphasizing flexibility and acrobatics.
- Japanese arts often use linear, efficient strikes and joint locks designed for armored combat.
- Chinese martial arts vary widely but often include soft, fluid, and energy-based (Qi) techniques.
3. **Weapons and Training:**
- Kalaripayattu features a vast array of traditional weapons such as swords, spears, daggers, and flexible whips, alongside unarmed combat.
- Japanese arts like Kenjutsu and Naginata focus on fewer but highly refined weapon systems.
- Chinese systems use diverse weapons but integrate them into broader internal energy practices.
4. **Purpose and Modern Application:**
- Today, Kalaripayattu emphasizes physical wellness, self-defence, and cultural preservation.
- Japanese and Chinese martial arts have evolved into sports, fitness systems, and self-development tools, much like Kalaripayattu’s revival in India and abroad.