Martial Arts

India has a rich tradition of martial arts that have been practiced for centuries, each with unique techniques, philosophies, and cultural significance. Here are some notable forms of Indian martial arts:

1. Kalaripayattu

• Kalarippayattu is a famous Indian martial art from the land of attraction Kerala and one of the oldest fighting systems in It is practised in most of the parts of south India.
• A Kalari is the school or training hall where martial arts are taught
• It includes strikes, kicks and some weapon-based practised
• Footwork patterns are the most important key in this art form
• Legend says: Parashuram started this
• There is no song or drumming involved with his

2. Silambam

• Silambamis a weapon-based Indian martial art from Tamil Nadu. Every state has it own style of martial arts.
• A wide variety of weapons are used in silamban, some of which are not found anywhere else in the Majorly used “Silambam staff” as a weapon.
• Silambam art also used animal movements of the snake, tiger, eagle forms and footwork patterns is play a key role here as
• Another part of Silambam is Kuttu varisai, it is the unarmed kind of martial
• Associated Legend: This martial art was developed by Lord Muruga (son of Lord Shiva, other name – Kartekeya) & sage Agasthya
• Travelled from Tamil Nadu to Malaysia.

3. Gatka

• Gatka is weapon-based Indian martial art basically created by the Sikhs of Punjab. Gatka means – “One whose freedom belongs to race”.
• There are many weapons used in Gatka like, Stick, Talwar, kirpan and
• The attacking and defense methods are based upon the positions of the hands feet and nature of weapons
• It is also displayed during the different celebrations or at fairs in Punjab
• Gatka is preserved through practice in Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and is demonstrated during religious and cultural festivals. The Punjab government and various Sikh organizations actively promote Gatka.

4. Thang Ta

• Thang Ta is a popular term for the ancient Manipuri Martial Art also known as HUYEN LALLONG.
• “Thang” means “Ta” means spear. Other weapons used are shield and axe.
• Manipuri martial arts with swords and spears are strong yet gracefully sophisticated
• Huyen Langlon martial art from Manipur consists of two main components, armed combat and unarmed fighting
• Sword and spear are the two primary weapons of huyen langlon
• It is practised in 3 different ways :
  • Firstly, ritualistic in nature linked with tantric practices,
  • Secondly, the mesmerising performance of sword and sword dances and
  • Thirdly, is the actual technique of fighting

5. Lathi Khela

• Lathi is an ancient armed martial art of India. It also refers to one of the world’s oldest weapons used in martial arts.
• Lathi or stick martial arts practised in Punjab and Bengal region of India
• Lathi still remains a popular sport in the Indian villages
• A practitioner is known as lathial

6. Mardani Khel

• Mardani Khel is an armed method of martial art created by the Maratha
• This traditional martial art of Maharashtra is practiced in Suitable for hilly regions.
• Was popular during the early and later medieval era and during the time of Maratha regime
• It is particularly known for its use of the uniquely Indian “pata” (sword) and “vita” (corded lance).
• Uses sword mainly & needs rapid movements

Efforts in Preservation and Promotion: