One of the oldest martial art forms in the world, Kalaripayattu centres not just on training and physical dexterity, but also on the energy system of the body. The master or teacher is known as gurukkal.

All Kalaripayattu students have to go through meticulous physical training to master the skills of the art. Medicinal oil massage is an integral part of Kalaripayattu, and its system of treatment has close links with Ayurveda.