Kerala has always been proud of its martial arts tradition. Kalaripayattu- the martial art heritage of Kerala is an important chapter in its social and cultural history, and today it has gained international recognition. This indigenous cultural tradition is one of the most ancient martial traditions in the world. ‘Kalari,’ signifying the training centre or the place where practice occurs, and ‘Payattu,’ meaning the fight or rigorous physical practice. Kalaripayattu is a scientifically structured psycho-physiological discipline that is also rooted in the mythical and historical heritage of the land.

Origin and Tradition
According to legend, Parashurama, the creator of Kerala, is said to be the founder of the martial arts tradition in the region, and who introduced it as a self-defence mechanism for the local people. It is believed that he established 108 kalaris (training centres) and trained 21 major Gurus (teachers) to spread the tradition, primarily to defeat enemies. Another legend states that when Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvathi at mount Kailasa in the North of Indian continent, the world tilted due to the weight of all the gods and goddesses attending the wedding. To restore the balance, Sage Agastya was sent to the South, where he disseminated a martial art tradition reflecting his strength and meditative power.

Recent research traces the roots of Kalaripayattu from the Sangam period (600 to 300 BCE). It says that the tradition arrived in South India in the 7th century CE from the North, alongside the Sanskrit Dhanurvedic tradition. The martial art flourished in South India by the 11th and 12th centuries CE as part of the long period of war between the South Indian dynasties. The historical connection with Bodhidharma- the South Indian Buddhist monk and master of martial arts and meditation, is a significant narrative. Bodhidharma, the legendary figure who meditated for nine years in a cave behind the Shaolin Temple (a monastery in China), is renowned for blending dynamic martial arts with his spiritual practice. Bodhidharma, who was born in South India (old Tamilakam) is believed to have developed and taught the early forms of martial arts. His journey to China is credited with the evolution of several martial art styles, including Kung Fu. This connection underscores why Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of South India, is often regarded as the ‘mother of martial arts.’

During the late mediaeval period, each village in Kerala had its own kalari to train the younger generation. The predominant warrior castes, Nairs and Thiyyas (of North Kerala), were the major practitioners. Kalari Gurus (traditional masteros) also trained boys and youths from other communities, including royal families.

Kalaripayattu played a significant role in the angam (battles) of the late medieval period between regional rulers and landlords, used to settle disputes unresolved by local governmental assemblies. Traditional warrior families were tasked with fighting for their ruler patrons. Warriors who attained the highest proficiency in Kalaripayattu, with at least 12 years of training, were selected to participate in these angams.  The late medieval period is considered as the Golden Era of Kalaripayattu, with celebrated warriors documented in verses and songs known as Vadakkan Pattukal (Vadakkan meaning North, Pattu meaning Songs). These songs praise the mastery of warriors from North Kerala. Iconic figures mentioned in Vadakkan Pattukal include Thacholi Othenan, Aromal Chekavar, and Unniyarcha (the celebrated female icon of Kalaripayattu), who belonged to the matrilineal Nair and Thiyya communities. The Vadakkan Pattukal highlight the principles of truthfulness and the use of Kalaripayattu for worthy causes, rather than selfish interests.

In the 19th century, during British rule, Kalaripayattu faced a dark period as the tradition was banned due to fears of revolution, leading to its decline across the state. However, in the late 20th century, Kalaripayattu gradually regained popularity as part of efforts to promote cultural heritage in South India.

Techniques and Practice
Kalaripayattu techniques encompass strikes, kicks, grappling, pre-set forms, weaponry, healing methods, and meditation. Kalari training commences with an oil massage to enhance body agility and suppleness. The healing system in Kalaripayattu relies on knowledge of Marmas (vital spots) and the body's energy channels. Traditionally, students undergo Kalari Uzhichil, a full-body oil massage by masters, before training. This system helped in increasing flexibility, sharpening the mind, and stimulating vital energy flow.

In this training system, weapon-based techniques were taught first and the barehanded techniques was taught later, which is a distinctive feature of Kerala Kalaripayattu. The practice is divided into four stages: Maithari- focusing on body control exercises; Kolthari- involving wooden weapons; Ankathari- practicing metal weapons; and Verumkai- teaching bare hand fighting techniques. Two major styles exist in Kerala in Kalaripayattu are- Vadakkan Kalari (Northern style), emphasising graceful body movement and weaponry, predominant style in the Malabar region; and Thekkan Kalari (Southern style) or Adi Murai, emphasising free armed techniques and powerful movements, mainly flourished in the Travancore region. Other styles such as Tulu Nadan Kalari (found in the region of South Karnataka and the extreme North of Kerala) and Madhya Kalari (in the central region) existed, but they were regional variations of the major styles.

Numerous training centres and individual trainers are providing Kalaripayattu training worldwide regardless of gender, community, or ethnic background. Another significant aspect is its influence on various art forms, including dance, drama, and ritual cultures in Kerala. Techniques from body preparation, healing techniques to the movement patterns are visible in many art forms, which shows the deep-rooted heritage of Kalaripayattu across the state.