A feature by Atharva Dangi
Silambam is an ancient weapon-based martial art that originated in Tamil Nadu, India.
The word, Silambam, itself tells its meaning – ‘Silam’ stands for mountain and ‘bam’ for bamboo, which is the primary weapon used in this art.
Sage Agastya is said to have conceptualized Silambam somewhere around 1000 BCE. Silappadikkaram and other books of Sangam Literature mention the sport and date it to 2nd century BC.
The main goal in this combative art is to defend the user against several armed people. Foot movements are important in Silambam. The variety of weapons used is also vast. Bamboo staff is the primary weapon. Some other weapons used are:
- Maru (A thrusting weapon which is made from horns of deer),
- Aruva (sickle),
- Savuku (a whip),
- Vaal (curved sword),
- Kuttu Katai (spiked knuckle duster),
- Katti (knife), and
- Sedikuchi (cudgel or short stick).
In modern times, Silambam practitioners also use firearms.
In the 18th century, Tamil ruler Veerapandiya Kattabomman used Silambam to wage war against the British colonists. So, when the British came to power in India, they banned Silambam. Thus, the long journey of Silambam faced a challenge.
Today, the annually held Silambam World Championships bring fame to many Silambam artists (mostly Indians). 14th of April is also known as the International Silambam Day.
In October 2021, a two-day National Silambam Championship was held in Vishakhapatnam, India. In March 2021, another organisation held another National Championship in Kanya Kumari.
There are many active state and national associations for Silambam and academies dedicated to teaching this martial art.
Silambam is now recognized as a sport under CBSE. Silambam players are given leave to attend national/international Seelambam competitions.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
