The Kalaripayattu art is based on India’s old tradition of Guru-Shishya symbiotic relations. Lot many efforts are being taken to associate youth with this art which is a unifying factor for the country. Let’s find out how reviving this ancient art which is becoming popular with youth is making the dream of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ come true.
The Kalaripayattu promotes traditional values where training starts with touching the feet of the guru which imbibes a healthy relationship. This tradition has continued for centuries and the modern-day’s Gurus also promote it.
Learning Kalaripayattu
It takes at least 4 years to master this art by any disciples but it also depends on the hard work of the learner.
The syllabus for learning this art is divided into four parts- Meipayattu (training stances), followed by Kolthari (practice with wooden weapons), Angathari (practice with metal weapons), and finally Verum kai (barehanded combat).
The most important part is the Meipayattu which involves conditioning the body according to the martial art. After gaining confidence in the first stage the other parts become easier for the learners. The students are taught to practice with wooden sticks fastly so as to take the fear out of them before moving to Angathari which is practiced with swords and shields.
Steps (Chuvadu) and postures (Vadivu) are important components of Kalaripayattu. Chuvadu is the basic steps of martial arts. While Vadivu literally means ‘postures’ and is named after animals. It is usually presented in eight forms.
Kalaripayattu connecting youth to its heritage
Kalaripayattu is a three thousand years old Kerala tradition. Now it is spreading in North India as well as the youth shows a lot of enthusiasm for learning this form of martial art. Kalaripayattu Campuses have come up in New Delhi in places such as Connaught Place, and Mayur Vihar.
Also, the Kalari has got a boost from Bollywood which has adopted its action sequences in various movies.
Governing Bodies
Indian Kalaripayattu Federation (IKF), Kalaripayattu Federation of India (KFI), and Kerala Kalaripayattu Association (KKA) are the governing bodies of this martial art and looking after its progress and welfare.
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