June 2, 2008

Martial Art of Kerala - KALARI

'Kalari' or 'Kalaripayyat' is the exclusive martial arts legacy of Kerala. An old combat martial art originating in Southern India, Kalari is used as a defensive system. It's believed that Kalaripayyat may have been the inspiration for the many Asian martial arts we know today like the chinese combat skill of 'Kung-fu'... Read more


Elements of Kalari
* Ankathattu -
'Ankathattu' is a four to six feet high platform constructed temporarily for the purpose of fighting duels.

* Poothara - It's a seven-tier platform placed in the south-west corner of every Kalari, housing the guardian deity of the Kalari.

* Gurukkal - Each Kalari is run by a ‘gurukkal’ (teacher) who teaches the students the esoteric physical and spiritual disciplines needed to master Kalaripayattu...Read More

Styles of Kalari

Northern (Vadakkan) Style: This style is characterized with the typical leaping and jumping movements which is unique to the system.

Southern (Thekkan) Style: The stances are comparatively higher than in the Northern or Vadakkan style and relatively less emphasis is placed on the weapons like sword and shield and Churika (double edged sword dagger about one cubit in length).

Central Style: This is 'a composite' from both the northern and southern styles that includes northern meippayattu preliminary exercises, southern emphasis on empty-hand techniques, and its own distinctive techniques, which are performed within floor drawings known as kalam...Read More

Read more interesting articles at www.indiamarks.com

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