A migrant worker hailing from India, Ganesan Sandhirakasan, recently made the news by winning the top prize in a Singapore government-organised competition. He won the accolade for his stunning performance of Silambam, demonstrating the depth and complexity of this ancient martial art form.
About Silambam: An Ancient Martial Art
Silambam is an ancient weapon-based martial art that originated in Tamilakam, now the Tamil Nadu region of India. Known as one of the world’s oldest martial arts, it has a rich history of technique and training. The term Silambam itself refers to ‘mountain bamboo’, pointing to the primary weapon used in this martial art. The practice also has close ties to kalaripayattu, a martial art form from Kerala, demonstrating the interconnected nature of regional practices.
The Focus on Foot Movement
A key element of Silambam is footwork, and an empty hand version called kutta varisai. Mastering Silambam requires one to learn sixteen different foot movements, helping the practitioner keep pace with their bamboo weapon. The main aim of this training is to enable the practitioner to defend themselves against multiple armed adversaries.
Weaponry in Silambam
This ancient martial art involves various weapons. The bamboo staff, whose length corresponds to the practitioner’s height, is the primary weapon. Other weapons include the Maru, a thrusting weapon made from deer horns, and the Aruva (sickle), Savuku (whip), Vaal (curved sword), Kuttu Katai (spiked knuckle duster), Katti (knife), and Sedikuchi (cudgel or short stick).
The Origin of Silambam
Believed to have originated around 1000 BC, this martial art form is attributed to the sage Agastya Munivar. It’s mentioned in Sillappadikkaram and other Sangam literary works dating back to 2nd century BC, while oral folk tales trace its history even further back, to around 7000 years ago. Current archaeological evidence confirms that Silambam has been practiced since at least 10,000 BC.
Ban and Evolution of Silambam
Silambam was widely employed in warfare by South Indian rulers. In particular, the soldiers of Tamil ruler Veerapandiya Kattabomman used it in their battles against British colonists. However, this martial art was banned towards the end of the 18th century. This ban, alongside the introduction of firearms, greatly impacted the combative nature of Silambam, leading to its evolution into a performance art.
Other Indian Martial Arts
India boasts a diverse range of martial art forms. These include Gatka from Punjab, Paika from Odisha, Thag Ta from Manipur, Kalaripayattu from Kerala, Choliya from Uttarakhand, Pang Lhabsol from Sikkim, Musti Yudha from Uttar Pradesh, Mardani Khel from Maharashtra, and Pari Khanda from Bihar. Each of these regional practices has unique techniques and histories, contributing to the rich tapestry of martial arts in India.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024