Kalari Units

In News

• Kalari units are getting back on track in Kerala after an interval of two and a half years.

About

• More than 10,000 Kalari units in the State stopped functioning abruptly after the COVID-19 outbreak.
• Kalari units: 
  • They impart Kalaripayattu.
  • The word “Kalari” means “battlefield“
•  Kalaripayattu: 
  • An ancient martial art form.
  • Originated in the country as a part of military training for warriors.
  • It is mentioned in the Vadakkan Pattukal, a collection of ballads written about the Chekavar of the Malabar region of Kerala. 
  • Still a living tradition in some parts of South India.
  • It contains rituals and philosophies inspired by Hinduism.
  • Kalaripayattu has complex movements and includes strikes, kicks, grappling, preset forms, weaponry and healing methods.
• Indian Kalaripayattu Federation (IKF)
  • Established in 1995 in Kerala
  • Aim: To promote Kalaripayattu
  • The Ministry and Youth Affairs And Sports, Govt. of India recognized IKF as a National Federation in 2015.

Source: TH