Kalaripayattu is considered one of the most ancient martial arts in the world. The fighting form indigenous to the Gods Own Country, is popularly known as the mother of martial arts. The term Kalaripayattu is derived from two words – “Kalari” meaning place of exercise or
gymnasium and “payattu” meaning to fight or exercise.
Traditionally, the Kalari centers are like a temple. The kalari is constructed four feet dug down the ground, the interiors of kalari is 42 feet in length and 21 feet width. Towards the south west corner, the poothara is placed and houses the guardian deity of Kalari. The seven-tier step
resembling a pyramid symbolizes the seven qualities a kalari practitioner must possess.