How a match works, in a minute
How kalaripayattu is judged
Kalaripayattu is a martial art from Kerala. These are its events at the national school games.
- Chuvadukal, the basic steps: a solo display of footwork, posture and the basics of self-defence.
- Meyppayattu, the body exercises: a solo display of speed, strength and flexibility, with leaps and stretches.
- Neduvadippayattu, a long-staff fight for a pair, with set strikes, blocks and spins.
- Judges mark what they see, such as accuracy, rhythm and control. The rule book sets no point values, and every event must follow the Indian Kalaripayattu Federation syllabus.
How long
The solo displays last at most two minutes each, and the staff fight one minute.