30/01/2025
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Kalarippayattu... The Mother of All Martial Arts – An Exaggeration?
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Kalarippayattu is often highlighted as the mother of all martial arts, primarily because of its ancient origins. However, its true essence goes beyond just its age; it is something we must deeply explore.
When a six-year-old child steps into the Kalari for the first time, touches the feet of the Gurukkal in reverence, and begins their training, they have no idea that they are embarking on a lifelong journey.
Within the sacred space of the Kalari, encircled by the guardians of the eight directions (Ashtadikpalakas), training starts at the Poothara in the western corner, dedicated to the serpent-guru. The weapon racks (Aayudha Thara) represent both the tangible and the profound metaphysical aspects of martial discipline. The associated rituals and salutations serve as constant reminders of the ultimate pursuit of truth. For a dedicated Kalari student, this spiritual dimension of Kalarippayattu remains a lifelong field of inquiry.
The training itself is an exhaustive transformation of the body. Every limb, from foot to head, undergoes intense conditioning. Students practice an extensive range of postures, stances, leaps, spins, and grappling techniques, both on the ground and mid-air. These are all integrated into "Meithari / Meyyithozhil / Meyyi Abhyasam), the core body-conditioning regimen, which pushes the body to its limits and transforms it into a weapon of unparalleled agility and strength.
To further enhance bodily transformation, specialized Uzhichil (Kalari massage and therapy) is practiced within the Kalari.
Following this, training advances into Kolthari (wooden weapon combat) and Ankathari (metal weapon combat). By the time a student reaches the peak of their weapon training, they have conditioned their body to endure extreme stress. The seamless integration of weapons with their own body movements allows for extraordinary combat efficiency, beyond what words can describe.
Next comes Verum Kai (bare-handed combat). By this stage, the body must be strong enough to absorb the force of combat. To achieve this, the student must master at least twelve fundamental "Meyi Karuthukal" (body-strengthen routines) while following a strict dietary regimen that strengthens the body to the resilience of iron.
As the body undergoes relentless training, it stretches, hardens, and strengthens, turning the limbs into powerful weapons. Over time, the fluidity of movement increases striking force exponentially, and the body's natural musculature creates an impenetrable protective shield.
Through Verum Kai, Kalarippayattu demonstrates a range of unarmed combat techniques that rival any other martial art in the world.
Beyond all this, the Kalari teaches us that every attack requires a precise target. This is where Marma Vidya (vital point science) comes into play—teaching not only how to strike, but also how to counter, heal, and neutralize opponents effectively. Even when restrained, Marma techniques can turn the tide of battle.
Further, Kalari Chikitsa (Kalari healing system) stands as a vast discipline on its own, offering deep knowledge of human anatomy and therapy.
At every stage of training, an imperceptible yet profound spiritual transformation unfolds within the practitioner. This foundation is deeply embedded in the study of Kalarippayattu, from its very first lesson.
A true Kalari practitioner only employs their skills for self-defense. However, when faced with a life-threatening situation, Kalarippayattu reminds them to counter their enemy with devastating precision.
Until the world encounters another martial art as comprehensive and holistic as this, Kalarippayattu will rightfully remain the mother of all martial arts.
