Chekavars embrace modern attire

Kalaripayattu is often pictured with sword fighters in man bun hairstyles, carnie moustaches and most of all, traditional Malayali attire complete with kachakettal loin cloth. But the changing times have brought in a modern makeover. These days, the discipline is often given a radical overhaul at various events to popularise it, in which contenders are togged in red and white outfits, complete with chest guards, knee caps and head guards.
Kalaripayattu Federation of India (KFI) president Baiju Gurukkal says, “In 2013, we introduced new costumes consisting of ankle length white pants with red strips and red coloured kurta for competitions. This was aimed at popularising the martial art. Gradually, head and chest guards along with knee caps were also introduced.”
While there are Kalaris that still follow the traditional dress code, more practitioners are embracing the modern outfit, he explains. “As of today, competitions are conducted only with the participants donning the modern outfits. The traditional costume is used only during practices inside the Kalari,” he adds.
Yes, the age-old style does look beautiful and ethnic, but practitioners are not so interested in wearing them. Here’s a peek into the recent changes in the attire:
Head Gear
While the head gear was never part of traditional Kalari attire, the new addition has helped the martial art gain acceptance outside the State. “When the costume got modernised, more educational institutions and students came forward to try out the discipline. We observed that schools in cities would shy away if the traditional outfit is used,” says Baiju. In States like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana too, there are Kalari masters who hold classes in the modernised dress code, complete with head gear.
Grappling Gloves
Even grappling gloves that are part of Mixed Martial Arts have found a place in Kalaripayattu. Arun Kumar V from Kochi explains, “What matters is the art form, and the dress code is secondary. The old costume was put together at a time when even commoners used it as daily wear. Times have changed and so, it’s best that the artform is persisting, imbibing the timely trends like the gloves.”
Kalari Clothing
Kerala’s climate is not as cool as it used to be in the past, making the new attire apt, says chekavars. Rajeesh K V from Kottayam, who has been in the field for almost 16 years, says, “Considering how it is a lot warmer these days, pants and kurta form a much more comfortable costume for Kalari.”
Chest & Rib Guard
In addition to providing safety, the protection gear is also stylish, says Kalari practitioner Sreebala S.“Gone are the days when women and aarchas wore the kacha and mundu. Many of my mates were initially hesitant to try out Kalari thinking they will have to do the Kachakettal.
The new costume is what
brought them in.”