With reference to India's culture and tradition, what is 'Kalaripayattu'?
UPSC CSE Pre 2014
A. It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India
B. It is an ancient style bronze and brasswork still found in southern part of Coromandel area
C. It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar
D. It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India
Answer: It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India
Option d is the correct answer.
Kalaripayattu is an Indian martial art that originated in Kerala, a state on the southwestern coast of India. Kalaripayattu is known for its long-standing history within Indian martial arts, and is one of the oldest surviving martial arts in world. Kalaripayattu is mentioned in the Vadakkan Pattukal, a collection of ballads written about the Chekavar of the Malabar region of Kerala. In the Vadakkan Pattukal, it is stated that the cardinal principle of Kalaripayattu was that knowledge of the art be used to further worthy causes, and not for the advancement of one's own selfish interests. Kalaripayattu is a martial art designed for the ancient battlefield (the word "Kalari" meaning "battlefield"), with weapons and combative techniques that are unique to Kerala.