Akshay Kumar in Kalarippayattu

KALARIPPAYATTU Kalarippayattu is a Dravidian martial art with origins in the southern state of Kerala in India. It is possibly one of the oldest fighting systems in existence and is considered as a forerunner of karate and kung fu. It is practiced primarily in southern India as well as in Sri Lanka and Malayasia. The origins of the art have dated back to 4th century A. D. when legend claims that the art began with the sage Parasurama who possessed mystical powers. He built temples and also introduced martial arts, which have influenced and shaped many other arts. Furthermore, it developed during an extended period of warfare between the Cheras and the Cholas in the 11th century when only a few were given the right and duty to learn martial arts. The art reached its height in the 16th century, in the days of Thacholi Othenan, a celebrated chieftain of northern Malabar. Later, under British rule, kalarippayattu was banned in 1804 in response to a series of revolts. The coordination of body and mind is given maximum importance in kalarippayattu. Indian martial arts focus on the Indian tradition of fight and self-defense and as a superior art form. Kalari, the word for a special kind of gymnasium where the martial art is practiced. The Kalari is treated as the temple of learning. As a martial art, Kalarippayattu incorporates strikes, kicks, grappling, forms, weaponry techniques, and healing methods. Variants of practice are classified according to geographical location and the three main styles are differentiated by their attacking and defensive patterns. A Kalaripayattu demonstration includes physical exercises and mock duels with armed and unarmed combat. Weapons used in kalarippayattu are the sword, dagger, shield, short sticks, spears, etc. The resurgence of public interest in kalarippayattu began in the 1920s as part of a wave of rediscovery of the traditional arts throughout south India. As martial arts grew in interest worldwide throughout the 1970s, so did the interest in kalarippayattu. In recent years, efforts have been made to further popularize the art, with it featuring in international and Indian films such as Indian (1996), Asoka (2001), The Myth (2005), and The Last Legion (2007). Today, Kalarippayattu is a modern method of physical fitness and an empty-handed means of self defense with a traditional tie to ceremonies and rituals.