Kalarippayatt is the exclusive martial arts legacy of Kerala, which was taken to China by the Buddhist monks and became the legendary model for modern martial arts.
'Kalari' means gymnasium, and 'payatt' means combat. It is the most comprehensive personal combat training scheme in the world.
Training includes exercises to develop sharp reflexes for unarmed combat and techniques of combat using mace, spears, daggers, sword/shield and the "Urumi", a unique lethal flexible sword which can be
concealed as a waist belt.
Apart from being a martial art, Kalarippayatt includes:
Marma treatment which identifies the vital nodal points (marmas) in the body (107 in all) for pressing and stroking to correct muscular and neurological problems. A massage that involves standing and applying pressure on the patient with the feet, known as Chavutti Thirummal. An invigorating Ayurvedic herbal treatment. Its own fracture treatment system developed to treat injuries that occur in the dynamic exercises and practices. |
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All Kalari practitioners frequently undergo a series of treatments to strengthen their bodies and prepare them for combat.
The growth and development of several forms of theatre and dance in Kerala has been highly influenced by the Kalari system. Kathakali dance, well known in the West, is a typical example. The term Kalari applies to the centers of training for both a warrior and an artist. Literally, it is a learning center of letters and physical culture. Thus the institution of Kalari has become an inseparable part of the cultural heritage of Kerala.
Kalaripayatt is an orthopedic system, massage regimen, ayurveda treatment and cultural experience - all rolled into one. Experience this art form under palm-leaf thatched Kalari huts. |
