Kalarippayat

Although most of India's martial arts have been lost over time, the southwestern state of Kerala maintains a rich martial tradition in the ancient art of kalarippayat, a complete system that incorporates empty-hand fighting, weaponcraft and a sophisticated method of massage and healing. After 10 years of intensive study, author D.H. Luijendijk is one of a handful of Westerners to reach the instructor level in the northern, central and southern branches of this obscure art, which traces its origins back to at least the 9th century BC. Brutal and effective, kalarippayat thrived for centuries until the British colonial government banned it in 1804 in response to a series of revolts. After that, it was practiced in secret, passed down mostly within certain families, until nationalists began promoting it as an expression of Keralan culture early in the 20th century. With this book, Luijendijk reveals the hidden treasures of this exotic art to the outside world. Against the colorful backdrop of kalarippayat's historical and religious underpinnings, he offers a rare glimpse into the concepts, stances, footwork, forms, techniques, weaponry and martial applications of each of the art's three main traditions.