This is an earnest attempt to introduce the age-old martial institution of Kerala to an outside audience, who takes interest in the study of the cultural heritage of this region. As a heritage handed down the centuries, the institution of Kalarippayatt has become popular among the lovers of martial art. Although its origin and growth are shrouded in mystery, the ancient ballads and-foreign accounts have left detailed notes on its practices and the physical culture it promoted. As an institution, the Kalari has greatly influenced the cultural life of Kerala society.

The villages of medieval Kerala had a kalari, a temple, and a public tank for bathing, - a rare combination of religion, hygiene, public health and defence. Although the Kalari system was an offshoot from the Hindu way of life, it was shared by all people, irrespective of caste and religion, as a common legacy