KALARIPAYATTU | SILAMBAM
Kalaripayattu and Silambam are known to be the oldest known fighting systems in existence. Though not much can be done to pinpoint the exact details of their conception and birth, historical evidence and research have placed the art forms' early days somewhere around 1000BC. In a bygone era, there were variants to the ancient arts of Kalaripayattu, Silambattam and Adimurai which were similar in structure but differed in direction and flow keeping with whichever region of India that it was being practiced in.
Kalaripayattu
Thought to be one of the most ancient martial arts in recorded history, Kalaripayattu is derived from two words; ‘Kalari’ signifying battlefield or arena and ‘payattu’ which translates to the words ‘practise’ or ‘exercise’.
Kalaripayattu focuses on developing sharp reflexes for unarmed combat and skilful fighting techniques using a myriad of weapons such as daggers, spears and the flexible sword known as the Urumi. Kalaripayattu is noted for its high-flying acrobatic and graceful movements which are based on the mannerisms and fighting techniques of animals.
Silambam
Originating in Tamil Nadu, India, Silambam is believed to have been practised for over 3000 years. Sangam Era literature, Cilappatikaram has early records of Silambam being practiced between 400 and 500AD.
The word Silambam etymologically means "staff from the hills" with the translation of the "Silam" being "hills" and "Kambu" being "staff or sticks". Widely practised in Tamil Nadu currently,. Silambam is performed with the aid of weapons, primarily the rattan staffs, short sticks and deer horns.