Indian Martial Arts Training for Army Troops

Martial Arts in India

India has a rich tradition of martial arts, with various forms originating from different regions of the country. Here are some notable Indian martial arts:

Khukri:

• The Khukri, a distinct short sword with a recurve in its blade, is the national weapon of Nepal and serves as a symbol of Gurkha soldiers in the Indian Army.

Kalaripayattu:

• Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest martial arts in India, is widely practiced in southern India. It includes mock duels, physical exercises, and various fighting techniques.
• originated in the state of Kerala in the 4th century A. D. According to legends, sage Parasurama, who built temples and introduced martial arts, started Kalarippayattu.

Silambam:

• Silambam, a martial art from Tamil Nadu including Pandya, Chola and Chera, had promoted it during their reign, involving using different types of staves for combat.

Thang-ta and Sarit Sarak:

• Created by the Meitei people of Manipur, Thang-ta is an armed martial art, while Sarit Sarak is an unarmed form.

Pari-khanda:

• Pari-khanda, a martial art from Bihar, involves using a sword and a shield.

Thoda:

• Thoda, a martial art from Himachal Pradesh, is a mixture of martial arts, sport, and culture.

Gatka:

• Gatka, a weapon-based martial art, is performed by the Sikhs of Punjab and features the skillful use of sticks, Kirpan, Talwar, and Kataar.

Mardani Khel:

• Mardani Khel, a traditional Maharashtrian martial art, focuses on weaponry skills, especially swords, swift movements, and low stances.

Inbuan Wrestling:

• Inbuan Wrestling, a martial art from Mizoram, has strict rules and emphasizes lifting the opponent off their feet.
• This art form was regarded as a sport only after the people of Mizoram migrated from Burma to Lushai hills.

Kuttu Varisai:

• First mentioned in Sangam literature (1st or 2nd century B.C.), Kuttu Varisai, a martial art from Tamil Nadu, is known for "empty hand combat" and uses animal-based sets.

Musti Yuddha:

• Musti Yuddha, a martial art from Uttar Pradesh, resembles boxing and incorporates physical, mental, and spiritual development.

Paika:

• Paika, a martial art from Odisha, is performed by the Khandayat caste and Gopal caste and incorporates acrobatic maneuvers and the use of weapons.

Sqay:

• Sqay, a martial art from Kashmir, involves fighting with a sword and shield.

Kathi Samu:

• Kathi Samu, a martial art from Andhra Pradesh, is practiced by royal armies and employs various kinds of swords.
• These martial arts not only serve as combat training but also hold cultural and historical significance, representing the diverse heritage of India.