Civil Services Prep

Prelims 2014 · Art and Culture · Question 27

With reference to India's culture and tradition, what is 'Kalaripayattu'?

  1. It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India
  2. It is an ancient style bronze and brass-work still found in southern part of Coromandel area
  3. It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar
  4. It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

Answer

It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

  • (a) Kalaripayattu is not a Bhakti cult of Shaivism. It is a traditional combat system. Verdict: Incorrect.
  • (b) This describes a craft tradition, not Kalaripayattu. Kalaripayattu has nothing to do with bronze/brass-work. Verdict: Incorrect.
  • (c) The dance-drama tradition of northern Malabar is Kathakali/Theyyam-related cultural forms, not Kalaripayattu. Verdict: Incorrect.
  • (d) Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art associated mainly with Kerala and parts of South India, and it survives as a living tradition. Verdict: Correct.
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