Incredible Martial Arts of India: Ancient Traditions & Techniques

(Bihar)

• Its elements are absorbed into the Chhau dance, which relies on its steps and techniques. 
• The Rajputs created it using a shield (Pari) and a Sword (Khanda).

(Himachal Pradesh)

• The name “Thoda” is derived from the round wooden piece attached to an arrow’s head to minimise its lethal potential. It combines martial arts, sports, and culture to invoke the blessings of Goddesses Mashoo and Durga during Baisakhi.
• Two groups of around 500 people participate, called Pashis and Saathis, believed to be descendants of the Pandavas and Kauravas.
• The game is played on a marked court, and archers aim for the leg below the knee to score points.

(Kerala)

• The martial art is practised in the training hall or gymnasium known as Kalari. 
• According to legends, it was introduced by sage Parasurama. 
• It includes unarmed and armed combat with a strong emphasis on footwork. Women and men practise it. [UPSC 2014]

Important terms

• Uzhichil: a Gingli oil massage; Otta: a stick with an ‘S’ shape used in combat; Maipayattu: Body exercises; Puliyankam: Sword fighting; Verumkai: Bare-handed combat; AngaThari: Utilizing metal weapons and Kolthari sticks.

(Maharashtra)

• It emphasises weaponry skills, especially swords, swift movements, and low stances suitable for hill ranges. 
• Notable for using the unique Indian Pata (sword) and Vita (corded lance). It was used effectively by Shivaji against the Mughals.

(Manipur)

• Thang-ta is an armed martial art using a sword (Thang) and a spear (Ta). It involves ritualistic practices and uses practical techniques for combat. [UPSC 2014]
• Thang-Ta was popularized in Manipur during the 17th century when the state was ruled by the Meitei kingdom who used it effectively against the British. 
  • Thus, it was banned during British rule but resurfaced after independence.
• Sarit Sarak: It is an unarmed combat art known for its offensive and evasive actions. 
• The two components Thang-Ta and Sarit Sarak, are together called Huyen Langlon. 

(Manipur)

• It is one of Manipur’s ancient martial arts involving sword and shield fighting. 
  • Its modified versions use a soft-leaf stick (Cheibi) encased as a sword and a leather shield. 
  • The contest occurs in a circle on a flat surface.

(Mizoram)

• It is a native martial art dating back to 1750 AD in Dungtlang village. 
  • It has strict rules which include staying within the circle, no kicking, and no knee bending. 
  • Victory involves lifting the opponent off their feet and catching the opponent’s belt.

(Punjab)

• The name “Gatka” is associated with freedom and grace and may have roots in the Sanskrit word “Gadha,” meaning mace. 
• It is a weapon-based martial art practised by the Sikhs in Gatka. It involves using weapons like stick, Kirpan, Talwar, and Kataar. 

(Tamilnadu)

• References to trading silambam staves, pearls, swords, and armour to foreign traders are found in the Silappadikaram. 
  • It is of divine origin, with Lord Murugan (in Tamil mythology) and sage Agastya having created Silambam. 
  • It evolved from a pure defence art into a combat exercise.  
  • The art also spread to Malaysia, where it’s a well-known sport and self-defence method.

(Tamil Nadu)

• It was first mentioned in Sangam literature.
• It is empty-hand Silambam, focussing on athleticism, footwork, stretching, yoga, gymnastics, and breathing exercises.
• Techniques include grappling, striking, and locking, with animal-based sets such as snake, eagle, tiger, elephant, and monkey.

(Uttar Pradesh)

• Originating in Varanasi, it is an unarmed martial art resembling boxing, including kicks, punches, and knee and elbow strikes. 
  • It incorporates physical, mental, and spiritual development.

• It is an ancient skill mastered by royal armies.

• It involves the use of swords and shields.

• The gymnast performs ariel Yoga poses in concert with a vertical, stationary or hanging wooden pole.

• The players use a round wooden rod within a circle.

• It is a wrestling game that does not require a court, only vacant land.

• It combines dance and combat and is now practised as a performing art.

• It focuses on attacks aimed at the body’s vital spots.

• It is a traditional combat wrestling style related to other Southeast Asian wrestling styles.

• It is an ancient unarmed art using various lock holds against an armed opponent without causing harm.