kalaripayattu

During training, the pupils make their moves according to the commands came forth by the gurukkal. These oral commands, called vaaythaari, are a set of technical words or phrases which do not convey much to the ordinary people and the uninitiated. The difficulty in deciphering the meanings of these terms has even led to differences in practice. The problem is compounded by the fact that giving a sufficiently vivid paraphrase of complicated vaaythaaris is an impossible task. Suffice it to say that vaaythaaris are best understood only through the medium of demonstration and by training under a master, and the beauty of the corresponding movements can be brought to full fruition only with long years of constant practice. In olden times, Kalaripayattu practice would take place only for three or four months of the monsoon season every year.