Abstract:
Traditional sports and games have long played a vital role in Kerala’s cultural heritage, serving not only as forms of recreation but also as tools for fostering social unity, cultural identity, and physical health. This paper explores twelve such traditional sports of Kerala—Kalaripayattu, Parichakali, Ambeyyal, Chathurangam, Vadithallu, Kayyankali, Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Thalapanthukali, Malakhamb, and Kayaking—analysing their historical roots and societal relevance. It examines how these games have shaped communal life, upheld local traditions, and contributed to holistic growth by promoting both physical fitness and strategic thinking. However, many of these traditional sports are in decline, challenged by modernisation, urban development, and the dominance of mainstream sports. This research identifies major obstacles to their survival, such as the lack of institutional backing, poor documentation, and decreasing interest among the youth. Using a qualitative methodology—including field visits, interviews with practitioners, and case studies—the study evaluates current preservation efforts and explores possibilities for incorporating these sports into education, tourism, and sports infrastructure.
The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted policies, public awareness, and grassroots initiatives to protect Kerala’s indigenous sporting legacy. By bridging traditional practices with contemporary sports culture, the study offers strategies to revitalise these games, promoting cultural pride, community participation, and well-rounded development in Kerala’s changing social landscape.
Keywords: Traditional Sports, Kerala Heritage, Social Cohesion, Community Engagement, Educational Integration, Modernisation and Sports.
