History
A Christian martial folk dance using shields and sticks, recalling training and festive combat play.
Martial Arts
Parichamuttukali
Shield-and-sword martial folk dance performed in circle formations.
About
Parichamuttukali is a martial folk form using shield (paricha) and sword (muttu) in rhythmic group patterns. Dancers move in circles to song and percussion, presenting combat skill as festival performance, especially among Christian communities in central Kerala.
Category
Martial Arts
Type
Martial folk dance
Notes
Shield and sword circle dance
Where to see
Central Kerala festivals and cultural stages
Origin district
Central Kerala Christian belts.
Community/tradition
Christian folk martial troupes.
Costume
White martial dress with shields and sticks.
Makeup
Usually none.
Musical instruments
Generally not central; occasional drum cues in demos.
Performance occasions
Parish festivals and cultural stages.
Famous artists
Gurukkals and senior practitioners of regional kalari styles.
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