WHAT IS Kalarippayattu?

Introduction

Kalarippayattu is one of the oldest surviving martial arts, originating from Kerala, India. It is a comprehensive system that integrates physical training, combat techniques, flexibility, and traditional healing practices.

More than just a martial art, Kalarippayattu is a complete mind-body discipline designed to develop strength, control, awareness, and resilience.

Origins of Kalarippayattu

Mythology

Parashurama, the mythical warrior sage, is presumed to have reclaimed the land of Kerala and parts of Konkan from the Arabian sea as a new settlement for sixty-four Brahmin families. Out of them, thirty-two families were settled in Kerala. Parashurama who had mastered the art of armed combat and archery under Lord Siva, taught these arts to twenty-one disciples in the new land that he had reclaimed. He and his disciples are believed to have then established one hundred and eight kalaris in different parts of Kerala.

Historians say that a wave of Aryan settlers had moved into the Konkan region and eventually into Kerala some three thousand years ago. Those settlers belonged to the Bhargava Gothra, the clan named after Bhargava or Parashurama. Their cultural, religious and social practices took root in the land of Kolathiri in the far north of Malabar.

Some hold the view that the Parashurama who is believed to have established the first kalaris is not a mythological character, but one of the early leaders of the Bhargava clan. They cite it as an example of how historical facts distorted by flights of fancy of succeeding generations, could get transformed, even elevated, to the level of myth.

Evolution

Mythology apart, the origin of payattu remains shrouded in mystery. No archaeologist, historian or sociologist has succeeded in producing any conclusive theory or view about the century and place where kalarippayattu, as a martial art, evolved and how it grew. However, theories abound.

Hunting (naayaattu) , which had developed almost to the level of a ritual in Kerala, had established its own terminology for hunters to communicate with one another about their quarry and positioning. They followed a highly disciplined ethical code while employing their skills. Perhaps, payattu borrowed and adapted several of those skills and the ethical code from the hunters of yore.

Another theory of evolution points to the migration of Aryans. It is believed that some of the Aryans who migrated to the south of India, eventually settled in the Konkan region and Kerala. They might have brought with them several forms of art and culture and also techniques of fighting from the dhanur veda. The people of Kerala must have imbibed some of them and adapted and interwoven them with their own techniques that evolved as payattu.

The long arduous journey of generations through centuries and the synthesis of various types of martial arts from different parts of India might have eventually crystallised into kalarippayattu as we know it.

And Kerala cherished and nurtured it as its own.

Archaeologists, historians and sociologists may probe deeper and come up with more views and theories about the century and place where kalarippayattu, as a martial art evolved and how it grew. However, for the present, the origin of payattu remains in the realms of mythology and mystery.

What Makes Kalarippayattu Different

• Total body coordination
• Dynamic flexibility
• Functional strength
• Self-defence
• Mental discipline

Core Components of Training

• Meipayattu (body conditioning)
• Verumkai (bare-handed defence and attack)
• Kolthari (wooden weapons)
• Ankathari (metal weapons)
• Recovery & body care

Benefits of Practice

Physical Benefits

Complete structural realignment, explosive fast-twitch muscular development, deep tissue flexibility, and dramatically increased cardiovascular stamina.

Mental Benefits

Enhanced focus, emotional regulation, combat awareness, and the instillation of deep psychological discipline and inner calm under pressure.

Practical Benefits

Real-world self defense applicability, improved posture in daily life, and a lasting foundation of overall wellness.

Can You Learn Today?

Yes. While traditionally practiced in Kerala, Kalarippayattu is now taught globally through structured systems. You can begin through:

• Offline training centers
• Online guided programs
• Workshops and intensive training camps

With proper guidance, beginners can safely start and progress step by step.

Is It Right for You?

Kalarippayattu is ideal if you are looking for:

• A deeper alternative to gym-based training
• A system combining strength, flexibility, and awareness
• A structured path of physical and mental development

It adapts to all levels — from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.

Frequently Asked Questions