Kicking up a storm

Descending from the twin arts of war and medicine, kalaripayyattu is a big hit with fitness enthusiasts, who readily sign up for workshops

Descending from the twin arts of war and medicine, kalaripayyattu is a big hit with fitness enthusiasts, who readily sign up for workshops

Kalaripayyattu, a martial art form that originated in Kerala, stems from a belief that Shiva had taught his disciple Parashurama this art form. Considered one of the best forms of self-defense,u00a0 kalaripayyattu also helps people burn extra calories, and stay fit because of the vigorous movements.u00a0

Dil Sagar (32), kalaripayyattu instructor and dancer, says,u00a0 "It is a traditional cure for modern ailments like back pain and stress."

He also trained in martial arts like taekwondo, kung fu and karate. "Since I have been exposed to different martial art forms, I take the best elements from each of these forms and present them inu00a0 kalaripayyattu. This has helped me develop my original style," he explains.

Kalaripayyattu is not about backbreaking movements, he insists. "I teach capoeira (a form of Brazilian martial arts) and yoga as warm up and cool down exercises to ensure that people work out in a scientific manner and enjoy their workouts."

Sowmya Jaganmurthy (23), who has been part of Sagar's workshop, says, "I am a contemporary dancer, and I find that kalari helps me stay fit. I incorporate several moves from this art form into my dance shows. Of course, I am also confident that I can protect myself, as kalaripayyattu teaches great moves for self-defence."
"Kalari has helped me condition my body. Many techniques and movements are unique to this martial art," says Rakesh Babu (25).

A4Artonomous, a Bangalore-based cultural group, will host a week's workshop (till May 25) in kalaripayyattu at Tharangini, Sadashivnagar.
Call 94481 27665 for details

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