Study of kalaris in vadakara, Kerala

Abstract

The relationship between people and the land in which they thrive is strengthened by the exchange of cultures and knowledge systems. The social system and political structure of the land plays an important role in shaping their way of living and vice versa. The period between 12th and 17th c AD, had Kerala following the feudal system and the land being divided into smaller principalities. The constant disputes between the feudal lords of each principality required armies skilled in martial practices. The martial art form of Kalarippayattu which has evolved from Kerala since for over 600 years became prominent during this era. The practice of Kalarippayattu happened in structures called ‘kalaris’, and each desam had its own kalari which offered training under the Gurukkal. The variations in the construction of kalaris are seen throughout the length of Kerala. This thesis concentrates on the kuzhikalaris found particularly in the region of Malabar. Vadakara is a region in North Malabar famous for its martial spirit rooted in the legends of Thacholi Othenan and his combat skills, and one which continues to have numerous kalaris in its landscape. The studies related to kalaris and Kalarippayattu are mostly confined to the practice of the martial art, and rarely discusses the architectural principles and belief systems followed for kalari construction. The key objective of this thesis is to study the architectural treatise associated with the construction of kalaris and to compare them with the present day construction practices, so as to understand the degree of authenticity that is maintained. As part of the study, six kalaris in Vadakara were documented and analyzed, apart from the various other kalaris which were visited. The general issues faced in the use of materials and traditional knowledge systems which affect the practice of Kalarippayattu within kalaris were identified. The thesis concludes by proposing recommendations for maintaining the quality of construction, thereby protecting the authenticity of the art form.