History
Kerala’s classical martial art, with roots in older combat and healing systems of the region; revived and taught widely in modern kalari schools.
Martial Arts
Kalaripayattu
Kerala’s classical martial art of strikes, locks, weapons, and healing knowledge.
About
Kalaripayattu is Kerala’s renowned martial tradition, practised in the kalari training ground. It combines empty-hand combat, flexible movement, weapon forms, and related knowledge of the body’s vital points. Training and demonstrations continue in gyms and cultural centres across the state.
Category
Martial Arts
Type
Martial art
Notes
Empty-hand, weapons, and kalari training
Where to see
Kalaris and cultural centres across Kerala
Origin district
Statewide, with historic northern and southern styles (Vadakkan and Thekkan) and famous centres in Kannur, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram regions.
Community/tradition
Kalari lineages of warriors, healers, and teachers; open today to students of many backgrounds.
Costume
Traditional kaccha (loincloth/wrap) for training; demonstration dress may include coloured waistcloths.
Makeup
Generally none in training; stage demonstrations may use light oiling and minimal styling.
Musical instruments
Usually not instrument-led; some stage demos use drum cues.
Performance occasions
Kalari schools, cultural festivals, tourism demonstrations, and temple-related martial displays.
Famous artists
Masters of northern and southern kalari lineages, including well-known gurukkals of Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram traditions.
More in Martial Arts
Continue exploring
Other art forms in this category.