Ancient Keralite Tradition of Martial Art and Physical Culture

Northern style kalarippayattu, which has its roots in the Northern Malabar region of Kerala in India, was essentially a body-mind training system for youngsters, integrated into their education between 9th and 12th centuries AD. The kalari, the spiritual space where kalarippayattu was practised, was an important place in every village at that time. The daily practice in the kalari helped to develop a healthy mind-body while the higher-level practices of the tradition prepared students to reach mastery using the well-trained body and mind as the primary tool in handling combat weapons and becoming a warrior in the advanced stages of kalarippayattu training.

The work demonstration will focus on three components of kalarippayattu: meithari, preparatory exercises including steps and sequences of movements (meipayat); kolthari, wooden weapon training systems; and ankathari, metal weapon training systems. 

The work demonstration will include practical demonstration of sequences of certain techniques, illustrating the principles of practice, as well as theoretical information and descriptive comments.