What is Kalari?
Kalari is the oldest and ancient martial art form in the world having its origin in the Malabar regions of present day Kerala, India. The word Kalari first appears in the Sangam literature which literally means battle field. And the practice of Kalari is called Kalaripayattu. It is considered to be the oldest surviving fighting form in the world.
But little is known about this art form and even more, very little is understood about the depth of this ancient form.
Kalari — literally translates to Space. Space that is both inside and outside of us.
Externally this space refers to the battle field or the space where the art form is being practised etc.
Internally this space refers to one’s inner space which needs to be clear of confusions, doubts, hesitations, inactivity or any other thing that can possibly cloud one’s mind and self. Kalari helps in filling the inner space with energy that can flow freely to all parts of the psyche.
Kalari for Martial Arts
The two words that are popular among the practitioners of Kalari are
- Kalari Thatt (martial feat)
- Kalari Kozhai (scared of battle field)
As these words indicate Kalari doesn’t speak about winning over the opponent but rather gaining mastery over the battlefield. The battlefield that is inside each one of us. Here the approach is inside out. Once the inner battle field or the inner space can be understood and mastered then the mastery of the external space becomes easier (Kalari Thatt). If there is a fear in understanding this Inner space then the same fear gets transformed to the external battle field too (Kalari Kozhai).
How can a person transform and gain mastery over his/her space is the whole process.
Kalari for Fitness
Kalari training includes sequences of Chuvatu & Vadivu, literally meaning steps and postures. There are eight animal postures in total and various steps that accompanies them. These animal postures work directly on one’s core strengthening and the steps helps the practitioner to move freely along with their core strength. Either it be sports, dancing or singing, this capability of moving freely with the core strength is the basic necessity for excelling in any form of work.
Kalari for Yoga & Meditation
Kalari can be seen as an extension or an extreme variant of Yoga. Just like yoga kalari too has extensive opening and closure of one’s body. This opening and closure when explored with breathing techniques prove to be a powerful meditative practice for one’s overall growth that will energise and synchronise one’s Physical, Mental & Spiritual manifestations.
Kalari for Mental Health
The art of mastering a posture that sits well with the stance according to the situation is the goal of every kalari practitioner. There are infinite combinations that are possible and the ability to decide and act spontaneously as per the situation is a wonderful example of body and mind working together. The ability to observe this union of Body & Mind along with Breath is exactly what Yoga specifies
Silambam
Silambam (or) Silambattam is one of the oldest and unique martial art forms in the world having its origin in the present day TamilNadu, India.
Stick is the most primitive weapon and stick based fighting techniques can be seen in many martial art forms, but Silambam is unique as it is the only art form that emphasises on Flow & Rhythm in all its movements. Silambam teaches its practitioners to deal with multiple opponents in different directions without breaking the flow of the movements.
Silambam is recommended to those who want to improve their focus and concentration.
Silambam - Movement in Meditation
It is said in the ancient texts that a warrior who is in the midst of the battle will not feel the heat and pressure if he/she is in touch with the flow & rhythm of the Silambam movements, rather the artist will be enjoying it as if dancing with the stick. Such is the beauty of Silambam. Just continuing from our texts, we at Katha Arts explore the unlimited possibilities of this art form as a Movement in Meditation.