Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form from Kerala, has made a remarkable debut at the National Games 2023. From its historical roots to its artistic expressions, Kalaripayattu is a captivating blend of culture, tradition, and sport. The lush green coastal areas of Kerala, with swaying coconut palms and the scent of spices in the air, have been the nurturing grounds for this centuries-old martial art form.
Often hailed as the mother of all martial arts, Kalaripayattu is a captivating mix of physical prowess, cultural heritage, and spiritual depth. In recent years, this ancient art form has been experiencing a renaissance, captivating the world with its graceful yet powerful movements. The combat sport has made its debut in the ongoing 37th edition of the National Games in Goa, where 224 athletes from 16 states in the country participated.
Adv. Poonthura Soman, Secretary-General of the Indian Kalarippayattu Federation, expressed his pride in showcasing this unique sporting event at the National Games in Goa. He mentioned that Kalarippayattu was included as a demonstrative sport in the 2015 National Games hosted by Kerala, and it has been a long wait for the sport to receive its due recognition as a competitive sport.
Kalarippayattu traces its origins back more than 3,000 years in Kerala, a state rich in tradition and history. The name itself is derived from two Malayalam words, “kalari,” meaning battlefield, and “payattu,” meaning fight. Developed by the warrior class, it was designed as a means of self-defence and combat training. The sport flourished in the 11th century AD during the rule of the powerful dynasties of Cholas, Cheras, and the Pandyas. However, during British rule, the sport was banned for the fear of revolution. It was in the year 1955, with the introduction of the Indian Kalarippayattu Federation (IKF), that the combat sport gradually regained its popularity as part of the initiative to promote traditional art forms in the southern part of India.
Soman expressed gratitude to the Government of India for giving the sport the recognition it deserved. He highlighted the cultural significance of Kalarippayattu and the need to preserve it for future generations. UNESCO included Kalaripayattu on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, further emphasizing its cultural significance.
One of the most captivating aspects of Kalarippayattu is its artistic and fluid movements. Practitioners seem to glide gracefully through the air, demonstrating a striking combination of strength, agility, and coordination. This dance-like quality is not coincidental; Kalarippayattu has a rich tradition of incorporating graceful movements into its martial repertoire.
Kalaripayattu also encompasses an array of weapons training, adding to its mystique. The most iconic of these weapons are the long staff, double-edged sword, flexible sword, and the dagger. Each weapon has its own set of intricate techniques and forms, making it a comprehensive martial art system that can be practiced throughout one’s life.
Soman mentioned that Kalaripayattu has been experiencing a resurgence in recent times, both in India and around the world. The increased global interest in holistic wellness practices has contributed to its revival. Kalarippayattu is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Ayurveda and yoga, emphasizing the balance of the mind, body, and spirit, making it appealing to those seeking a holistic approach to well-being.
With Kalaripayattu finally getting its eureka moment in the Goa nationals, Soman is hopeful that the athletes will help preserve its traditions in the coming days. He expressed the mission to take Kalaripayattu to as many countries as possible in the next five years and make it a regular feature in international events.
In conclusion, Kalaripayattu, with its rich history and cultural significance, has the potential to inspire and captivate people for generations to come. Its unique blend of physical combat and artistry, along with its connection to holistic wellness practices, makes it a truly remarkable martial art form.