Kalarippayattu is one of the oldest living traditions of martial training and physical culture existing in the world today. One of the martial arts in South India, it is a unique blend of physical, mental and spiritual practice to bring about an upheaval in man by using his basic instincts dormant deep in him to a higher level thereby realizing the eternal through a scientific and systematic way. Kalari - a type of gymnasium built according to the vaastushasthra giving each devathas (subtle beings or higher beings) its particular place. In the southwest corner kalari there is a poothara (an altar) with seven steps representing seven female powers including Bhadra Kali, and a Shiva linga on its top. Poojas are performed to enhance the student's bhakthi (devotion, love). And action performed with bhakthi will increase his concentration, which makes him proficient rapidly. This art includes seven shasthras (sciences) like Vastu, Jyothi, Marma, Ayurveda, Asana, Tantraand Mantra.

It is believed that sage Parasurama who built temples along south India introduced this art. An important and advanced element of Kalari is the Marmam. Marmam measns pressure points attacks. It in itself has three divisions, according to their toughness, effect, and expertise, being Thodu Marmam (attacking by touching), Choondu Marmam (attacking by pointing)and Noku Marmam(attacking by looking). Psychic powers invoked by using certain mantras was used to fight against the enemy, which fall under the category of the Choondu marmam and the Noku Marmam,through which they could transfer subtle powers through their index finger and eyes pointing it to the major marmas, through which enemy can be made motionless, was mastered in the past is now totally ignored because of its tough practices.

The Gurukkal (Master) will be having a thorough knowledge about marmas. Apart from physical training a student also receives moral training from his teacher, includes how to guide students, and how to behave towards patients and other people.

Kalari being practiced by some students