India’s rich cultural heritage is evident not just in its history and traditions, but also in its diverse martial arts. From the hilly terrains of Manipur to the plains of Punjab, each region has given birth to unique forms of martial arts. This article presents an informative glimpse into the various martial arts practised across India.
Thang Ta – A Martial Art from Manipur
Hailing from Manipur, Thang Ta is a form of Huyen Langlon, a local martial art. The term ‘Huyen’ denotes war, while ‘Langlon’ can mean net, knowledge, or art. It consists of two main components – Thang-ta (armed combat) and Sarit Sarak (unarmed fighting). The primary weapons of this art form are the Thang (sword) and Ta (spear), supplemented by the shield and axe.
Lathi Khela – A Martial Tradition of West Bengal
Lathi Khela, primarily practised in West Bengal and Punjab, involves the use of Lathi, a wooden weapon, both for combat and sport. It still holds significance among rural communities, where practitioners, known as Lathial, undergo rigorous training.
Gatka – A Sikh Martial Legacy
Originating during the Mughal era with the 6th Sikh Guru Hargobind’s adoption of the kirpan for self-defence, Gatka has been associated with Sikh gurus and warriors over centuries. Primarily a stick-fighting technique, the focus is on self-control and sword-fighting skills. Currently, Gatka is taught and practised by people of all faiths and communities, thanks to the Gatka Federation of India, established in 2008.
Kalaripayattu – Kerala’s Ancient Martial System
Originating between the 3rd century BC and the 2nd century AD, Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form based on the human body’s knowledge. It is practised in a gymnasium-like arena called ‘Kalari’, and it significantly influenced modern Kung – Fu.
Mallakhamb- A Spectacular Sport from Madhya Pradesh
Mallakhamb is a traditional sport where gymnasts execute aerial yoga or gymnastic postures and wrestling grips on a stationary or hanging wooden pole, cane, or rope. Predominantly practised in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the sport has been named after the terms malla (wrestler) and khamb (pole).
Silambam – Weapon-Based Art of Tamil Nadu
Silambam, an ancient martial art renowned in Tamil Nadu, incorporates a diverse range of weapons and animal movements like snake, tiger, and eagle forms. The revered Lord Muruga and sage Agasthya are credited with creating this martial art style.
Musti Yuddha – Unarmed Combat from Varanasi
Originating from Varanasi, Musti Yuddha is an unarmed fighting technique that teaches self-protection without arms and ammunition. It needs complete physical and mental coordination, with the application of punches, kicks, knees and elbows.
Kathi Samu – Sword Fighting Art of Andhra Pradesh
Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Kathi Samu is famous for its use of various types of swords. Practised in an area named ‘Garidi’, it includes a preliminary stick fight called ‘Vairi’ preceding a real sword fight.
Sqay – Martial Art Tradition from Kashmir
Sqay is a unique martial art from Kashmir focusing on sword fighting. Apart from partaking in armed combat, practitioners master unarmed tactics like kicks, punches, locks, and chops.
Paikha Akhadha – Odisha’s Warrior School
Also known as Paika akhara, Paikha Akhadha was originally a peasant militia training school in Odisha. The rhythmic gestures and weapons swung in synchronization to the beat of the drum are a distinctive part of this performance art.
These diverse martial art forms not only illustrate India’s rich cultural diversity but also reflect the courage, discipline, and traditions passed down generations.