Why this matters now
Martial arts — matching the form to its region — are a quick prelims-fact area within performing arts and traditions.
Major martial-art forms
- Kalaripayattu — Kerala; one of the oldest martial arts in the world;
- Silambam — Tamil Nadu (staff/stick fighting);
- Gatka — Punjab (Sikh sword/stick art);
- Thang-Ta & Sarit Sarak — Manipur (sword & spear / unarmed);
- Mardani Khel — Maharashtra; Lathi — north India; Mallakhamba — pole gymnastics.
Significance
Beyond combat, these arts foster physical fitness, discipline, focus and cultural identity, and are linked to dance, festivals and tradition (e.g. Chhau dance draws on martial movement). Efforts continue to preserve and revive them, including through sport and tourism.
UPSC angle
Match martial art to region: Kalaripayattu (Kerala), Silambam (Tamil Nadu), Gatka (Punjab), Thang-Ta (Manipur), Mardani Khel (Maharashtra), Mallakhamba (pole). Kalaripayattu among the oldest.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kalaripayattu?
An ancient martial art from Kerala, considered one of the oldest fighting systems in the world.
Where is Gatka practised?
In Punjab — a traditional Sikh martial art using sticks and swords.
What is Thang-Ta?
A martial art from Manipur using the sword (thang) and spear (ta).
What is Mallakhamba?
A traditional sport/art combining gymnastics performed on a vertical pole or rope.