Meipayattu, The Gateway to Kalaripayattu's Holistic Mastery
In the vast realm of martial arts, there exists an ancient and profound discipline known as Kalaripayattu, which traces its roots back to the southern Indian state of Kerala. This traditional martial art is not merely about combat; it's a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being. Kalaripayattu is a journey that unfolds in four stages, with Meipayattu serving as the crucial initial step.
The Essence of Meipayattu
Meipayattu, also recognized as Mei Payatt and Meithari, marks the commencement of one's exploration into the world of Kalaripayattu. According to the Kalaripayattu instructor Radhika M, this phase lays the foundation for the subsequent stages and demands at least 15 months of dedicated practice from aspiring learners (source).
At its core, Meipayattu is a blend of flexibility and strengthening exercises, intertwined with kalari sequences. It is during this stage that students embark on a journey of enhancing neuro-muscular coordination and refining physio-psychological agility. The movements in Meipayattu draw inspiration from the animal kingdom, aiming to embody the strength of the elephant, the agility of the cat, and the speed of the serpent.
Meipayattu reveals a deep connection to the natural world and a unique anthropomorphic attachment to the animal kingdom. The practice goes beyond physical exercises, fostering an appreciation for the qualities exhibited by various creatures inhabiting our planet.
This initial stage of Kalaripayattu employs a diverse range of techniques, including breathing exercises, stretching calisthenics, Vadivus (body poses), leg exercises, and various jumps and leaps. These components collectively contribute to the transformation of the body, emotions, and consciousness of the practitioner.
The essence of Meipayattu lies in rhythm, vision, and attention. Through structured and rhythmic movements, students cultivate a heightened sense of awareness and focus. This not only refines their physical capabilities but also lays the groundwork for the mental discipline required in the subsequent stages of Kalaripayattu.
Meipayattu isn't merely a physical exercise; it is a discipline that strives to create a harmonious balance between the body and mind. Traditionally, warriors engaged in these exercises not only to prepare for combat but also to overcome the limitations of their own bodies. Patience, self-control, focus, and awareness are instilled through Meipayattu, forming the bedrock of a seasoned Kalaripayattu practitioner.
Types of Mei Payatts in Northern Kalari Styles
1. Kal Uyarthi Payatt:
Origin: Arappu Kai style of Northern Kalari Payatt.
Characteristics: Widely practiced and popular, often used as the competition form in Kalarippayatt championships. Schools typically focus on 6-8 routines, showcasing a diverse range of movements.
2. Pakarcha Kal Payatt:
Origin: Arappu Kai style.
Characteristics: Similar to Kal Uyarthi Payatt but distinguished by more complex leg movements. Recently gaining popularity as a competition form, usually comprising 3 or 4 routines.
3. Kai Kuthi Payatt:
Origin: Pilla Thangi style of Kalari Payatt in the Kadathanad region.
Characteristics: Involves low stances, emphasizing placing hands on the floor. Strengthens the bladder region, enhances flexibility, and increases suppleness in the hip area.
4. Pakarcha Kai Payatt:
Origin: Kadathanad style of Kalari Payatt.
Characteristics: Focuses on practical applications of the art, resembling southern Kalari forms. Connects Mei Thari with the fourth stage, Verum Kai (Empty hand).
5. Aruvathe Payatt:
Origin: 'Vatten thiruppu' style practiced in the Payannur region.
Characteristics: Sequences of leg exercises facing a wall. Distinctive feature influenced by acrobatic Tulu Nadan martial arts, once practiced in northern Kerala and southern Karnataka.
6. Thanja Payatt / Vettum Thanja Payatt:
Origin: Arappu Kai’ style of Kalari Payatt.
Characteristics: Combat-oriented routines forming the foundation for Verum Kai (Empty hand) training.
7. Other Lesser Known Forms:
Some regional styles incorporate lesser-known forms of Mei Payatts, showcasing the diversity and richness of Kalaripayattu practices.
Components of Meipayattu
1. Thozhil - Arappu - Adavu - Payatt:
Thozhil: Basic component, a combination of individual techniques.
Arappu: Combination of Thozhils, forming a section.
Adavu: Multiple Arappus, creating a routine or form. The number of adavus depending on schools varies from 12 to 18 or more.
Payatt: The entire Mei Payatt stage of training, with each Adavu representing a single routine.
2. Vai Thari (വായ്ത്താരി):
Meaning: Oral Sequences/Verbal commands.
Characteristics: Mei Payatts, like other forms in Kalari, are performed according to rhythmic verbal commands. This oral sequence adds a musical dimension to the martial art, creating a dynamic and aesthetic performance.
In essence, the diverse types of Mei Payatts, along with their structured components and rhythmic sequences, contribute to the multifaceted nature of Kalaripayattu in the northern Kalari styles. Each form not only reflects the cultural nuances of its origin but also showcases the intricate blend of physical prowess and artistic expression inherent in this ancient martial art.