Kalaripayattu – The Ancient Martial Art of Kerala

Kalaripayattu, often referred to as Kalari, is an ancient martial art form originating from Kerala, India. Known as the "Mother of All Martial Arts," it is a holistic system that integrates combat techniques, physical training, philosophy, and traditional medicine.

Historical Evolution

The term "Kalari" means "battlefield" or "training ground," while "Payattu" means "practice" or "fight." It is believed that Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, founded Kalaripayattu. The art form evolved during the Sangam period when warriors trained to defend their land. It flourished under the Chera and Chola dynasties during the medieval period when Kerala faced constant invasions and was predominantly practiced by Nair warriors.

The British colonial ban in the 18th century led to a decline in practice, but the art was secretly preserved by Kalari masters. The 20th century saw a revival as part of the Kerala renaissance movement, and today, Kalaripayattu is practiced for self-defense, physical therapy, performance art, and spiritual growth.

The Kalari: A Sacred Space

Training takes place in a Kalari, a specially constructed arena with designated spaces for deities, the teacher, and the practice area. These spaces hold cultural and spiritual significance, and respecting them is integral to the tradition.

Kalaripayattu, image courtesy pixelwriter2309, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Four Stages of Training

• Meithari – Focuses on body control through physical exercises and postures.
• Kolthari – Teaches handling of wooden weapons for striking and maneuvering.
• Angathari – Introduces metal weapons like swords, spears, and the flexible urumi.
• Verum Kai – Emphasizes unarmed combat through strikes, locks, and pressure point manipulation.

Northern Style (Vadakkan Kalari)

The Northern style, known as Vadakkan Kalari, is considered the original form of Kalaripayattu. Rooted in the philosophy of "Meyy Kanavanam" (make the body an eye), it emphasizes physical flexibility through individual exercises and combinations that lead to meypayattu, similar to kata in Karate.

This style blends flexibility exercises with offensive and defensive techniques, progressing through:

• Meipayattu – Body control and movement.
• Kolthari – Wooden weapon practice.
• Angathari – Metal weapon practice.
• Verum Kai – Barehanded combat.

Most Kalaris introduce weapon training within three to six months. Training progresses from long and short sticks to iron weapons, starting with daggers and swords, followed by spears. While bows and arrows were once integral, they are rarely taught today.

Southern Style (Thekkan Kalari)

The Southern style, known as Thekkan Kalari, is believed to have been influenced by the sage Agastya and incorporates elements from neighboring martial arts like Varma Adi or Adi Murai. Primarily practiced in southern Kerala, particularly near Kanyakumari, this style leans towards a more combative approach.

Key characteristics of Thekkan Kalari:

• Emphasizes hand-to-hand combat and agile footwork.
• Training begins with Chuvadu, a system of fighting combinations.
• Partner-based sparring is introduced early for real-time combat experience.
• Weapon training progresses from small sticks to long sticks and swords.
• Advanced students may learn Marma points (vital pressure points) under the guidance of the gurukkal.

Beyond Combat: Healing and Philosophy

Kalaripayattu extends beyond combat, embracing healing and philosophy. Marma Chikitsa uses knowledge of vital energy points for healing, while herbal medicine and massage therapy promote flexibility and well-being. This unique massage technique focuses on stimulating the body's marmas to restore balance, promote healing, and rejuvenate the body and mind.

Cultural Significance

Kalaripayattu is deeply intertwined with Kerala's culture and history. Its influence can be seen in various art forms like Theyyam, Kathakali, and other traditional dances. The Vadakkan Pattukal, ballads of North Kerala, are filled with tales of Kalari warriors and their heroic deeds.

Many films depict the thrilling life stories of Kalari warriors, particularly those from Kadathanad, a region in Vatakara, Kozhikode District.

Kalaripayattu stands as a testament to Kerala's rich cultural heritage, blending martial prowess, healing traditions, and spiritual values. From its ancient origins to its modern revival, this art form continues to captivate and inspire practitioners worldwide.

The Woven Tales of Kerala: Folklore and Dress

Kerala, a land of lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is richly layered with folklore that seeps into every aspect of life, including its traditional attire. The stories woven into the fabric of Kerala's dress are not merely about aesthetics; they are narratives of social hierarchy, religious beliefs, and the very essence of the region's identity. From the simple mundu to the ornate bridal finery, each garment tells a tale.

The Mundu and Neriyathu: Simplicity and Grace

The most iconic garment of Kerala is undoubtedly the 'mundu' and 'neriyathu'. This two-piece ensemble, traditionally worn by women, consists of a lower garment, the 'mundu', and an upper cloth, the 'neriyathu'. The simplicity of the off-white or cream fabric, often adorned with a golden border or 'kasavu', reflects the region's emphasis on understated elegance. Folklore suggests that the golden border was inspired by the sun's rays, symbolizing prosperity and auspiciousness. The 'neriyathu' draped over the shoulder speaks of modesty and grace. Historically, the manner in which the 'neriyathu' was worn also indicated social standing and caste.

The 'mundu', worn by men, is a single piece of cloth wrapped around the waist. Its versatility is evident in its adaptability to daily life, from agricultural work to formal occasions. The way a man folds and wears his 'mundu' can indicate his social status and regional origin. Folklore often includes stories of men using their 'mundus' to carry goods, climb trees, or even as makeshift tools, highlighting its practicality and cultural significance.

Kasavu: The Golden Thread of Tradition

The 'kasavu', the golden thread that adorns many Kerala garments, is more than just a decorative element. It is imbued with symbolic meaning. The golden hue represents prosperity, divinity, and purity. The intricate designs woven into the 'kasavu' often depict motifs from nature, such as peacocks, flowers, and vines, reflecting the region's deep connection to its natural environment. These designs are not merely decorative but carry stories and symbolic meanings passed down through generations. Folklore often links the 'kasavu' with temple rituals and auspicious occasions, where it is believed to invoke blessings and prosperity.

Regional Variations and Specific Attire

Kerala's diverse cultural landscape has resulted in regional variations in dress. Here are a few examples:

• Christian Bridal Attire: Syrian Christian brides often wear a white or cream silk sari, known as 'chattayum mundum', or a white gown, influenced by European styles, symbolizing purity and sanctity. These gowns are often heavily embroidered with floral motifs and pearls. Folklore surrounding these bridal dresses often emphasize the importance of family heirlooms and the preservation of tradition.
• Mappila Attire: The Muslim communities of Kerala, particularly the Mappilas, have their distinct dress traditions. Men often wear a 'thoppi' (cap) and a 'lungi', while women wear 'thattam' (headscarf) and 'kandhanis' (ornate jewelry). Folklore pertaining to Mappila attire often highlights the blend of Arab influences with local traditions, reflecting the region's historical trade links.
• Tribal Attire: The tribal communities of Kerala, residing in the hilly regions, have their unique dress styles, often made from natural materials like bark, leaves, and fibers. These garments are not merely functional but also carry symbolic meanings related to their cultural identity and connection to nature. Folklore surrounding tribal attire often involves stories of ancestral spirits and the importance of preserving their traditional ways of life.
• Kathakali Costumes: The elaborate costumes of Kathakali dancers are a spectacle in themselves. Each character's attire is meticulously crafted, with specific colors and ornaments symbolizing their role and personality. The face paint, headgear, and voluminous skirts are integral to the performance, conveying the epic tales of Hindu mythology. Folklore is deeply embedded within the Kathakali costumes, each element telling a part of the story being enacted.

The folklore of Kerala's dress is a living testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. These garments are not merely pieces of cloth but narratives woven with threads of tradition, history, and belief, preserving the essence of Kerala's identity for generations to come.

Folk Crafts of Kerala

Kerala has a rich tradition of folk crafts that reflect its cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Many of these crafts are deeply associated with rituals and traditions.

Aranmula Kannadi – The Sacred Metal Mirror

Aranmula Kannadi is a unique, handmade metal mirror crafted in the village of Aranmula. Unlike conventional glass mirrors, these mirrors are made from a special metal alloy that produces a highly reflective surface.

Image courtesy Krishnakumar Vairassery, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

These mirrors are considered auspicious and are often used in religious and cultural ceremonies. The craft is a closely guarded family secret, passed down through generations.

Beypore Uru – The Legendary Handcrafted Dhows of Kerala

Beypore, a quaint coastal town in Kerala, is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of crafting the magnificent Beypore Uru—handmade wooden dhows that once dominated the maritime trade across the Arabian Sea. These majestic vessels, built with skill and dedication by the Khalasis (traditional shipbuilders), are a testament to Kerala’s rich maritime heritage and folklore.

A Legacy of Seafaring Excellence

The art of Uru-making in Beypore dates back over 1,500 years, deeply rooted in the region’s trade relations with the Arab world. Arab merchants would commission these vessels from Kerala’s skilled craftsmen, relying on their durability, aesthetic appeal, and seaworthiness. This age-old tradition has been passed down through generations, with shipbuilding techniques remaining largely unchanged, preserving an invaluable cultural legacy.

The Craftsmanship and Process

The making of a Beypore Uru is an intricate process that requires immense patience and expertise. Unlike modern shipbuilding techniques, these dhows are constructed without blueprints, relying solely on the craftsmen’s knowledge and experience. The primary material used is high-quality teak wood, sourced from Kerala and other regions. Each Uru is crafted with hand tools, and it can take months or even years to complete, depending on its size and specifications.

The Khalasis – Keepers of Tradition

At the heart of Uru-making are the Khalasis, a community of expert shipbuilders who have inherited the craft from their ancestors. Their techniques are steeped in tradition, combining indigenous knowledge with remarkable engineering skills. The Khalasis use a unique pulley-and-lever system to maneuver the massive wooden planks into place, a practice that has become a folkloric spectacle in itself.

Folklore and Cultural Significance

The Beypore Uru is more than just a ship—it is a symbol of Kerala’s seafaring legacy. Local folklore speaks of the Khalasis’ almost mystical ability to shape wood into floating marvels. The tradition also finds mention in old Malayalam literature and songs that celebrate the grandeur of these vessels and their voyages across the ocean.

Beypore Uru in the Modern Era

While the demand for wooden dhows has declined with the advent of modern shipbuilding, Beypore continues to uphold its tradition by constructing custom-made Urus for luxury and heritage purposes. Today, these vessels serve as floating symbols of Kerala’s craftsmanship, drawing tourists and maritime enthusiasts from around the world.

Visiting Beypore offers a glimpse into this extraordinary craft, where one can witness firsthand the meticulous process of Uru-making and appreciate the living folklore surrounding this maritime marvel.

Kalamezhuthu – Ritual Floor Art

Kalamezhuthu is a ritualistic floor art performed in temples and sacred spaces of Kerala. It involves intricate drawings made using natural powders.

Materials and Techniques

The designs are drawn using colored powders made from natural substances like turmeric, charcoal, rice flour, and leaves.

Deities and Symbolism

Kalamezhuthu is dedicated to deities such as Bhadrakali, Ayyappan, and Naga Devatas. Each pattern represents divine energy and protection.

Ritual Performance

The ritual includes Kalampattu, where devotional songs accompany the drawing. After the ceremony, the artwork is erased as part of the ritual.

Significance in Kerala’s Culture

Kalamezhuthu is an essential part of temple festivals and community rituals, showcasing Kerala’s rich artistic and spiritual traditions.

Handloom tradition of Kerala

The handloom tradition of Kerala is a vibrant expression of the state's material folklore, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of its people. It is not just a craft but a living heritage, shaped by generations of weavers and their intimate connection to community life.

Famous handloom centers like Balaramapuram, Chendamangalam, Kuthampully, and Kannur have upheld unique weaving styles that reflect local customs, rituals, and aesthetic sensibilities. These places are known for their distinctive designs, such as the kasavu saree with its elegant golden border.

The weaving techniques, tools, and motifs found in Kerala's handloom sector have been passed down through families and weaving communities, forming an essential part of the state's intangible cultural heritage. Each product tells a story, echoing the voices of tradition and the rhythm of everyday life.

In Kerala, handloom is more than a livelihood—it is a symbol of identity, resilience, and folk creativity, woven into the very threads of regional history and collective memory.

Food and Food Customs of Kerala

Kerala's cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors, use of aromatic spices, and emphasis on fresh ingredients. The traditional food of Kerala reflects the state's agricultural abundance, coastal geography, and cultural influences. The cuisine is a blend of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, often incorporating rice, coconut, seafood, and a variety of spices.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu and Kadala curry is a classic and popular breakfast combination in Kerala. Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake made from ground rice flour and grated coconut. It is a common breakfast dish, usually served with a variety of accompaniments. To prepare puttu, rice flour is mixed with water and a pinch of salt, then steamed using a puttu maker. The puttu maker has two sections – the bottom holds water for steaming, while the top contains the rice-coconut mixture. When steamed, puttu attains a fluffy texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

Kadala curry is a spicy and flavorful black chickpea (kadala) curry that is often served as an accompaniment to puttu. The chickpeas are cooked in a rich, aromatic gravy made with onions, tomatoes, coconut milk, and a blend of spices such as coriander, cumin, fennel, and red chili powder. The combination of soft puttu with the spicy kadala curry creates a delightful culinary experience. It is often served with grated coconut, ripe bananas, or papadum to enhance the textures and flavors.

Rice and Grains

Rice is the staple food of Kerala, forming the base of most meals. Kerala’s cuisine also incorporates other grains such as wheat, tapioca, and millets, used to make a variety of dishes. Rice-based dishes include different varieties such as matta rice, ghee rice, and kanji (rice porridge).

Coconut in Kerala Cuisine

Coconut is an essential ingredient in Kerala’s cooking. Coconut oil, grated coconut, and coconut milk are extensively used in most dishes, adding a rich and distinct flavor. From curries to snacks, coconut plays a central role in enhancing taste and texture.

Sadya – The Traditional Feast

Sadya is a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, usually during festivals and special occasions. It is a multi-course meal with a variety of dishes served in a specific order. Sadya often features more than a dozen dishes, including sambar, avial, thoran, olan, pickles, and payasam (dessert). This elaborate meal is a significant part of Kerala’s cultural traditions.

Curries and Gravies

Kerala is famous for its flavorful curries made with a blend of spices and coconut milk. Some popular curries include avial (a mix of vegetables in coconut gravy), sambar (a lentil-based curry with vegetables), olan (ash gourd and black-eyed peas in coconut milk), and more. These curries are enjoyed with rice and traditional accompaniments.

Seafood Delicacies

With its long coastline, Kerala has an abundance of seafood in its cuisine. Prawns, fish, crabs, and mussels are prepared using coconut and spices, creating delicious and aromatic dishes such as Meen Curry (fish curry) and Chemmeen Roast (prawn fry).

Appam and Idiyappam

Appam is a soft, lacy pancake made from fermented rice batter, typically served with coconut milk and a side dish like stew or egg curry. Idiyappam, also known as "string hoppers," is made from rice flour and served similarly to appam. These dishes are light and flavorful, making them popular breakfast and dinner options.

Banana in Kerala Cuisine

Kerala is known for its variety of bananas, which are used both as a fruit and as an ingredient in dishes. Ethakka (ripe plantains) are used to make popular snacks like pazham pori (banana fritters). Banana chips, another iconic snack, are deep-fried in coconut oil, giving them a crispy texture and a unique taste.

Snacks and Sweets

Kerala offers an array of snacks and sweets, including unniyappam (deep-fried rice and banana fritters), Kerala halwa, and payasam (a sweet milk-based dessert made with rice, vermicelli, or lentils). Banana chips and murukku are also common traditional snacks enjoyed during festivals and gatherings.

Food Customs in Kerala

Eating with Hands

In Kerala, it is customary to eat with hands, especially during a Sadya or traditional meal. The right hand is used for eating, while the left hand is used for pouring water or passing items. This practice is believed to enhance the connection with the food and its flavors.

Hospitality

Kerala is known for its warm hospitality. Guests are often served the best food available as a mark of respect and welcome. Sharing meals and offering food to visitors is an important cultural norm.

Feasting During Festivals

Festivals in Kerala, such as Onam and Vishu, are celebrated with elaborate feasts. The Sadya served during Onam is an integral part of the celebrations, featuring a variety of dishes arranged on a banana leaf.

Religious and Ritualistic Food Offerings

During temple festivals and religious ceremonies, various food offerings are made to deities. These offerings, known as prasadam, are later distributed to devotees. Some temples are famous for their special prasadam, such as Ambalapuzha Palpayasam and Sabarimala Aravana.

Aranmula Valla Sadya

Valla Sadya is a grand feast associated with the famous Aranmula Boat Race in Kerala. It is conducted at the Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula, where devotees offer a large vegetarian feast to the oarsmen of snake boats (palliyodams). The feast consists of more than 60 different dishes, and the participants joyfully ask for extra servings in a playful ritual known as "Vechupada."

Nataka Shala Sadya

Nataka Sala Sadya is a traditional feast conducted at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur. It is named after the temple’s "Nataka Sala" (a part of the temple structure). The feast is known for its simple yet authentic dishes and is served in the temple premises during special occasions and festivals.

Ramassery Idli

Ramassery Idli is a unique variation of idli, originating from the village of Ramassery near Palakkad. Unlike regular idlis, these are prepared using a special steaming technique that gives them a soft, flat, and spongy texture. They are cooked over cloth-covered earthen pots, enhancing their flavor. This idli is often enjoyed with chutney and sambar.

Folk Games of Kerala

Kallanum Polisum

This is a traditional children's game played in Kerala. It is a fun and interactive role-playing game that involves two teams, "Kallan" and "Polis." The game is also known as "Thief and Police" or "Robber and Cop" in English.

Formation of Teams

The children divide themselves into two teams – the "Kallan" team and the "Polis" team. The number of players on each team can vary based on the group size and available space.

Objective

The goal of the game is for the "Kallan" team to steal a hidden object or reach a specific location without getting caught by the "Polis" team.

Gameplay

The "Kallan" team starts at one point, and the "Polis" team is stationed at another point. The "Kallan" team tries to sneak, crawl, or move stealthily to avoid detection while reaching the target location or stealing the hidden object.

Rules

The "Polis" team tries to catch and tag the "Kallan" players as they move. Once a "Kallan" player is caught, they are considered "arrested" and might have to join the "Polis" team in catching others. The game continues until all the "Kallan" players are caught or they successfully complete the objective.

Winning Team

The game is mostly played for fun, with the joy lying in the chase and excitement. There may not be a definitive winner or loser, as the game is enjoyed for the thrill of both teams.

"Kallanum Polisum Kali" allows children to engage in imaginative play, improve physical activity, and develop teamwork and strategic thinking. It is a popular pastime in Kerala and is cherished by children in various regions, often with minor variations in rules and names.

Pathinanju Nayum Puliyum (Fifteen Dogs and Tiger)

This is an old Kerala game played by both children and elders. Normally, two participants play the game. The game consists of three tigers and fifteen dogs, represented by small stones, buttons, or similar objects.

Rules and Gameplay

The tigers chase the dogs, while the dogs try to catch the tiger. If a dog catches a tiger, they switch roles – the dog becomes the tiger, and the tiger becomes the dog.

Kothankallu Kali

Kothankallu Kali is a traditional folk game played by girls in Kerala. Small pebbles serve as the basic component of this game. Children collect pebbles and organize the play area by marking the ground. The pebbles are positioned at a certain distance from the starting line.

Gameplay

Each player takes turns picking up five pebbles at a time and throwing them from the starting line. The goal is to make the pebbles reach a specific target location.

Scoring

If a player manages to get one of their pebbles to the target, they earn a point. After all players complete their turns, the points are added up, and the highest scorer is declared the winner.

Advanced Play

The game can be played with either five or seven pebbles. The pebbles are placed on the floor with some distance between them. The player throws one pebble into the air and, before it falls, must pick up another pebble without touching the others and then catch the thrown pebble before it lands. The player who successfully catches the most pebbles wins.

Kothankallu Kali is a fun and engaging game that improves hand-eye coordination and reflexes.

Other Popular Games

Many other traditional games were prevalent in Kerala in the past. Some of them include:

• Andi Kali – A game played with cashew nuts.
• Goli Kali – A game played with small glass marbles.
• Kuttiyum Kolum – A game similar to cricket, played with a stick and a small wooden piece.

These folk games reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, providing entertainment and developing strategic thinking, teamwork, and physical coordination among players.

Folk Medicine of Kerala

Folk medicine in Kerala is deeply rooted in traditional healing practices and natural remedies passed down through generations. It encompasses various aspects of healing, including herbal remedies, dietary practices, massages, and spiritual rituals.

Herbal Remedies

Kerala's folk medicine extensively utilizes herbs and plants for their medicinal properties. Local herbs like ginger, turmeric, neem, and holy basil (tulsi) are commonly used in herbal formulations.

Marma Chikitsa

A therapeutic practice focusing on vital energy points (marma points) in the body to promote healing and balance energy flow.

Dietary Practices

Emphasizes the role of diet in health, using spices like turmeric and black pepper for digestion and immunity.

Spiritual and Ritualistic Practices

Healing often includes prayers, mantras, and rituals to address physical, emotional, and energetic well-being.

Visha Chikilsa

Visha Chikilsa refers to traditional poison treatment in Kerala, addressing venomous bites and toxic exposures through herbal medicines and therapeutic techniques.

Identification of Toxicology

Practitioners identify venomous creatures and toxic substances for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Herbal Remedies

Various herbs neutralize toxins and promote recovery, administered as decoctions, powders, or external applications.

Therapeutic Measures

Includes specialized massages, hot compresses, steam therapy, and medicinal ointments to aid detoxification.

Holistic Approach

Treatment considers overall well-being, including lifestyle modifications and dietary recommendations.

While Visha Chikilsa holds historical significance, modern medical treatment remains the recommended approach for toxicological emergencies.

Folk Music Instruments

The folk music of Kerala is brought to life through the captivating sounds of various traditional instruments. The resounding beats of the Chenda, the soothing tones of the Pulluvan Veena, and the soulful melodies of other instruments add layers of richness to Kerala’s cultural landscape.

Chenda

A cylindrical percussion instrument, widely used in temple rituals, Theyyam performances, and Kathakali.

Pulluvan Veena

A one-stringed traditional instrument played during serpent worship rituals, producing hypnotic melodies.

Ilathalam

A small metallic cymbal used in folk performances and traditional temple music.

Kurumkuzhal

A wind instrument similar to a flute, used in ritualistic music and folk performances.

Thudi

A small hand drum, traditionally played by tribal communities in Kerala during their folk celebrations.

Kerala's folklore is a treasure trove of diverse and enthralling art forms that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. The various feasts, culinary traditions, folk medicines, and musical instruments highlight the artistic, spiritual, and traditional essence of Kerala’s vibrant past and present.