Kalaripayattu: The Timeless Martial Art of Kerala
Kalaripayattu, often hailed as the mother of all martial arts, is one of the world’s oldest fighting systems, originating from the southern Indian state of Kerala.
Do watch the video on Kalaripayattu below to get the glimpse of it.
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Kalari Kshethra is a cultural landmark nestled in Chithirapuram, Munnar offering an immersive introduction to the rich traditional arts of Kerala. For visitors to Munnar, it is one of the most captivating venues to witness live performances of two of Kerala’s proudest art forms — Kalaripayattu and Kathakali.
The Essence of Kalari Kshethra
Kalari Kshethra serves as a vibrant center for Kerala’s ancient martial and performing arts. As a visitor, you are not just a spectator but are drawn into a cultural dialogue that echoes thousands of years of South Indian heritage. The center regularly hosts daily evening shows, interactive workshops, and demonstration classes, making it ideal for tourists seeking cultural depth in their Munnar itinerary.
Kalaripayattu Show
Often referred to as the mother of all martial arts, Kalaripayattu is believed to have originated in Kerala over 3,000 years ago. The one-hour Kalaripayattu performance at Kalari Kshethra is a breathtaking demonstration of this martial art in its purest form.
Performed by highly skilled practitioners, the show includes intricate movements, powerful combat drills, and sequences with both bare hands and traditional metal weapons such as swords, spears, and shields. The precision, flexibility, and raw energy of the artists leave a lasting impression, making it a must-see cultural experience in Munnar.
Kathakali: Kerala’s Classical Storytelling Dance
Equally compelling is the Kathakali performance, a spectacular theatrical form that combines classical dance, intricate facial expressions, vibrant costumes, and centuries-old mythological storytelling. The art form traces its roots to the 17th century, evolving from an earlier form called Ramanattam, created by the Raja of Kottarakkara.
At Kalari Kshethra, the Kathakali performance typically portrays episodes from the Ramayana or Mahabharata, enhanced by hypnotic percussion music and expressive choreography. One of the highlights is the pre-show preparation, where guests are invited to witness the elaborate makeup process of the artists — a ritual that in itself is a visual treat. Although we couldn’t watch the Kathakali play. We attended only Kalaripayattu show.
Show Timings & tickets
- Kathakali Performance: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Kalaripayattu Martial Art Show: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
They do arrange special shows and training classes
Ticket price : ₹300 per person
Children below five years are not chargable
And above five years are same as adults
Both performances are perfectly timed for an early evening cultural excursion and can easily be included in any Munnar travel plan.
The widespread practice and prevalence of Kalaripayattu in Kerala began to decline in the 17th century, when the usage of guns and cannons became widespread.
Training Structure and Techniques
- The training process is typically divided into stages, including Angathari (weapons training) and Verumkai (empty-hand techniques).
- Techniques include:
- Body conditioning (Maippayattu): This phase focuses on building flexibility, agility, and balance.
- Weaponry: Training with swords, shields, spears, and other traditional weapons.
- Empty-hand combat: Grips, kicks, strikes, blocks, attacks, and throws.
- Kalaripayattu also incorporates healing practices and massage therapy.
Kalaripayattu training follows a systematic progression:
Meipayattu (Body Conditioning)
Beginners undergo rigorous physical training to build flexibility, strength, balance, and agility. Movements mimic animals — like the lion, snake, and elephant — fostering alertness and coordination.
Kolthari (Wooden Weapons)
Students graduate to wielding wooden weapons like the long staff (kettukari), short sticks, and mace, mastering both offensive and defensive techniques.
Angathari (Metal Weapons)
Advanced stages involve dangerous metal weapons, including the sword and shield, dagger, and the iconic urumi (flexible whip sword) — a weapon that demands exceptional control and grace. Training with swords, shields, spears, and other traditional weapons.
Verumkai (Empty-Hand Techniques)
Here, practitioners learn unarmed combat, grappling, pressure point strikes and self-defense tactics — still relevant for modern applications. Verumkai techniques include Grips, kicks, strikes, blocks, attacks, and throws.
Video of Kalaripayattu show, Munnar
Suggested Read: Keladi Museum: Unveiling the Treasures of History
Kalaripayattu in Contemporary Culture
In recent decades, Kalaripayattu has witnessed a resurgence, both as a performing art and as a practical discipline for fitness, wellness, and self-defense. It has inspired choreographers, filmmakers, and martial artists across the world. Bollywood and even Hollywood have featured Kalari techniques in action scenes — bringing global visibility to this ancient form.
Kalaripayattu is not merely a martial art — it is a legacy of Kerala’s cultural brilliance. It preserves a lineage of warriors, healers, and spiritual seekers who believe in the unity of body, mind, and soul. In a world racing towards modernity, Kalari stands as a graceful reminder of timeless strength and rooted discipline.
So when you are in Kerala, Please do watch the show of Kalaripayattu. Don’t miss it.
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