13 Badass Forms Of Martial Arts That Were Invented In India

The moment the phrase ‘martial arts’ is uttered, the words ‘karate’, ‘kung fu’, pop up in our minds, and we think of Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan showing off some fast moves. We think of the Shaolin monks, and send our kids to the local karate club to learn self-defence techniques.

But do you know that some of the raddest martial art forms were invented and practiced in India? In fact, the true land of unity in diversity that India is, it offers different martial art techniques from different states, giving us an array of self-defence techniques to choose from. Here are 13 of them, take a look.

1. Kalaripayattu from Kerala

This form of martial art originated in Kerala sometime during 3rd century BC and is still practiced. Using weapons is an essential part of Kalaripayattu.

 

2. Kushti

The historical form of ‘malla yuddha’ later turned into kushti. It is still practiced, but mostly for recreation.

 

3. Gatka from Punjab

Using wooden staves, this is an essential martial art form of North India and even Pakistan.

 

4. Mardani khel from Maharashtra

It is famous for its use of the Indian sword and corded lance.

 

5. Sqay from Kashmir

Using swords and shields, this martial art form hails from Kashmir.

 

6. Silambam from Tamil Nadu

This weapon-based martial art form is also practiced in Sri Lanka.

 

7. Paika Akhadha from Odisha

This martial art form can be traced back to the ancient Kalinga.

 

8. Thang Ta from Manipur

It is an armed combat form of the Meitei people of Manipur.

 

9. Sarit Sarak from Manipur

It is the weaponless version of Thang-ta.

 

10. Bandesh

This an empty handed and almost obscure martial art form of ancient India. Bandesh was used to maim and defeat, but not kill.

 

11. Kathi Samu from Andhra Pradesh

This form was mastered by the royal families and the armies during old days.

 

12. Lathi Khela from Bengal

Sadly, this form of fighting using various kinds of sticks is almost an endangered art form now.

 

13. Pari Khanda from Odisha

This is a form of sword dance, that is still practiced as part of Chhau dance.

Say, what about reviving these forms of martial arts rather than going for taekwondo or karate?

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