Know your heritage: 6 ancient Indian martial art forms

Martial arts are more than just physical power and fighting techniques. They are a mix of discipline, respect, and the cultural heritage of a region or country. Beyond self-defense and show, these arts instill values of discipline and sternness among the students and practitioners. From the swift, traditional movements of Kalaripayattu to the flowing movements of Tai Chi, each martial art style has its importance and essence.

Here we list down six traditional Indian martial art forms that are a part of our rich cultural heritage.

Kalaripayattu is often called the mother of all martial arts and originated in the southern state of Kerala. Its roots date back to the 3rd century BCE which makes it one of the oldest martial arts in existence. Kalaripayattu is a highly sophisticated and detailed technique and it involves performing strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry, and healing techniques.
The people or practitioners of this martial art form are known as Kalari and they undergo rigorous training in body flexibility, control, and balance. The art also incorporates the use of various traditional weapons like swords, spears, and shields.

Gatka is the traditional martial art of the Sikh community and has its origins in Punjab. It is said that Gatka was initially developed to defend the Sikh faith and communities, and as a martial art, it has a significant focus on armed combat. Initially, practitioners of the Gatka were only Sikhs, but now they can be anyone who has learned the art and skillfully take up weapons such as the stick (lathi), sword (shastar), and circular shield.
The Gatka involves fluid and flexible movements, along with skilled and specific footwork. The Gatka practitioners have to learn about the swift lathi strikes but apply their knowledge only for self-defense.

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The martial art of Kuttu Varisai has its origin in the Tamil Nadu region and is said to combine the techniques of armed fighting with unarmed combat. This art form is characterised by a unique blend of unarmed combat, grappling, and diverse striking techniques. Kuttu Varisai practitioners focus on channeling their inner strength and giving it out in the form of precise and powerful movements in the akhada or field.
Students who have learned to an advanced stage in Kuttu Varisai are also taught how to fight and attack through the different pressure points.

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Originating from the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, Silambam is a martial art that primarily revolves around staff fighting. Practitioners can be seen skillfully moving around and striking bamboo staff of varying lengths.
Silambam involves delicate footwork, swift spins, and precise strikes, which creates a sight to behold for onlookers but could be a serious problem for the culprits. It is an effective form of combat and was usually used for self-defense. Silambam also places a strong emphasis on mental discipline and focus, essential elements for mastering the art of staff fighting.

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Thang-ta is from the northeastern state of Manipur and is a traditional martial art that incorporates both armed and unarmed combat. Practitioners, known as Thang-ta experts, can be seen skillfully wielding swords, spears, and other traditional weapons, but only during times and instances of self-defense should these movements be applied. The art involves dynamic and swift movements, along with acrobatics.
With time, Thang-ta not only serves as a means of self-defense but is also a part of the cultural and religious practices of the Manipuri people, especially Meities.

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Mallakhamb is a unique form of ancient Indian martial art that is said to have been introduced to help wrestlers and other sportspersons practice their movements and tricks before going on the ground. It involves performing acrobatics, yoga postures, and wrestling movements on a vertical wooden pole or rope.
Mallakhamb practitioners can be seen displaying incredible strength, flexibility, and balance as they execute many different poses and movements on top of a pole. Originally developed as a form of physical conditioning for warriors, Mallakhamb has evolved into a competitive sport today.

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