Kalaripayattu: The Ancient Martial Art Form

Kadathandan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre, Kumily, Idukki is honored to present Kalaripayattu, the oldest martial art in the world, often referred to as the mother of all martial arts. This ancient art form, which is over 3000 years old, is not only a testament to India's rich cultural heritage but also a gift to the modern world. Every day, our center showcases this incredible martial art, allowing audiences to witness its power, grace, and historical significance.

The Origins and Legend of Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu traces its origins back to ancient South India, with legend attributing its creation to the warrior saint Parasurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to the legend, Parasurama reclaimed the land of Kerala from the Arabian Sea by throwing his axe into the water, causing the sea to recede. He then established forty-two kalaris (training schools) and taught twenty-one masters the art of Kalaripayattu to protect the newly created land.

The legend further tells of Shiva, the great yogi residing on Mount Kailasa in the Himalayas, who taught Parasurama the art of Kalaripayattu during deep meditation. Parasurama, in turn, passed on this knowledge to his disciples, all of whom were Brahmins, ensuring the art's survival and propagation.

Kalaripayattu's influence extended far beyond India. Kung-Fu, popularized by the monks of the Shaolin Temple in China, is said to trace its origins back to Bodhi Dharma, an Indian Buddhist monk and Kalaripayattu master.

The Holistic Approach to Training

Kalaripayattu is more than just a martial art; it is a holistic system that aims for ultimate coordination and control over both mind and body. The weapons used in Kalaripayattu become an extension of the body, controlled by the mind to achieve a high degree of protection in both offensive and defensive combat situations. The true beauty of this ancient art lies in the harmonious synergy of art, science, and medicine.

The training in Kalaripayattu is rigorous and demands dedication, discipline, and devotion. The grand training schedule is stratified into different levels, each designed to progressively enhance the practitioner's skills.

• Basic Level: Focuses on unarmed techniques, helping the aspirant achieve mastery over body movements and balance.
• Intermediate Level: Trains the student to attain agility, flexibility, and coordination of body movements.
• Advanced Level: Involves training with weapons, preparing the student for more complex combat scenarios.
• Instructor Level: Includes proficiency in the usage of advanced weapons such as the sword and shield, spear, and the urumi or spring sword.

The Traditional Kalari

Traditionally, the Kalari (training ground) is constructed by digging a hollow in the ground, forming a sunken area four feet deep, forty-two feet long, and twenty-one feet wide. This area is known as the Kuzhikalari, with "Kuzhi" meaning "portions formed by caving in the earth" in the Malayalam language.

At Kadathandan Kalari Centre, Thekkady, this martial art is performed in a traditional Kuzhikalari. Our center features a highly designed gallery, providing a clear and safe view of the performance from a distance, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the skill and precision of the practitioners.

Kalaripayattu: A Scientific System of Physical Culture

Kalaripayattu is a traditional psycho-physiological discipline that has evolved from Kerala's unique mytho-historical heritage. It is not just a martial art but a scientific system of physical culture and training, deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Kerala.

At Kadathandan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre, Kumily Centre, Idukki, we invite you to experience the awe-inspiring art of Kalaripayattu, where ancient techniques meet modern appreciation. Witness the extraordinary skill of our performers as they demonstrate the profound legacy of this martial art, connecting the past with the present in every movement.