Kalarippayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala has won attention far and wide and it attracts enthusiasts from all over the world.

Kalaris (Kalarippayattu training centres) like CVN Kalari in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) play host to many foreigners who come here to learn this unique art.

Kalarippayattu has won international acclaim on a curious basis too.

Noted Kalarippayattu exponent G. Sathyanarayanan of CVN Kalari,  has recently acted in a Jackie Chan movie; The Myth.

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.

In the medieval period Kalarippayattu was a way of life in the state. The Aasan or Guru (teacher) of Kalarippayattu had much social respectability.