HISTORY OF INDIAN MARTIAL ARTS Vedic times Vedic literature includes a field of study known as ‘Dhanuveda’ (from Dhanu –“bow and Veda “Knowledge”) which developed into an important component of ancient Hindu society. This “Science of archery” included armed and unarmed combat and aspects such as meditation and mental conditioning. The theories behind Yoga, Ayurveda and Tantra such as 1)
Kundalini(coiled energy)
2)
Prana (life force)
3)
Nadi (meridians)
4)
Chakra (aura) and
5)
Marman 9pressure points), are also present Indian Martial Arts.
Although many Hindus Saints have championed non-violence in modern times, it is also true that many ancient Hindu temples have statues of deities and warriors in various postures related to combat. It is also true that the responsibility for the practice of Indian martial arts tell to the hands of the Hindu Kshatriyas(warrior caste) Furthermore a number of ancient Dravidian martial arts were developed in South India including Tamil Nandu and Kerala. 1) Kuttu Varisai (empty hand combat) 2) Varma Kalai (the art of vital points) 3) Kalarippayatt (Way of the arena) 4) Adithada (attack and defend) The Vishnu Purane text describes Dhanu Veda as one of the traditional 18 branches of Knowledge. LOTUS SUTRA: combat techniques, boxing arts, joint locks, fist strikes, grapples and throws, advance movement – Nara dance form,