Kadtaram (dagger) is a short, sharp, metal weapon used in Kalarippayattu, the traditional martial art form of Kerala.

It is quite handy, easy to hide and less breakable. It has a blade with a slight curve, sharp on both sides and pointed at the tip.

In the Payattu or fight, both attack and defence are done with the dagger itself. No shield is used in the fight. In Kadtaram fight, there are twelve adavus (tactics).

The video is taken from CVN Kalari, Thiruvananthapuram.

Kalarippayattu is regarded as the most ancient martial art form in the world. Kalarippayattu training focuses on the co-ordination of mind and body.

There is also a scientific medicine system called Kalarichikilsa associated with this martial art. Kalarichikilsa, the herbal medicine system is highly effective for bruises and sprains.

There are two styles of Kalarippayattu; the North Kerala and South Kerala styles.