Believed by many histories and scholars as one of the oldest and most scientific and comprehensive system of martial training existing in the world today. Kalaripayattu the ancient martial art of Kerala truly deserves the title of the forerunner of all martial arts.

With the help of the available historical evidences, the present practicing traditions origin can be traced back to the 12th century A.D. The word Kalaripayattu literally means Combat training inside the gymnasium. Kalaripayattu declined after the 17th century but in recent times it has staged a revival, thanks to the activities of various kalari sanghams.

The training consists of self disciplinary training and physical culture. The most promising of the trainees are taught the Marmas, viz the vulnerable points in the human system. Based on the ayurvedic system of medical practice the old masters of Kalaripayattu has indeginously developed methods of treatments for kalari related injuries like bruises, fractures etc. known as kalarichikilsa. The training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of mind and body.