Seminar on Manipuri Martial arts Thang Ta in Kerala

Kochi, July 18 (DC) : Close on the heels of the welcome Kalarippayattu received in schools, Kerala University’s International Centre for Kerala Studies is organising a two-day seminar on Kerala’s own martial art form and also the Manipuri martial art, Thang Ta.

The sessions and training will be held in the campus on July 20 and 21.

“We took up this program to spread awareness about the traditional intellectual wealth of Kerala among the public. As Manipuri Thang-Ta is quite similar to Kalaripayattu in technique, we clubbed it together,” said Dr C.R. Rajagopal, Honorary Director of the study centre.

Twelve members from VKM Kalari, Thrissur, and 10 members from Manipur’s Kanglei Saktam Langba Kanglup will showcase their expertise and train those interested.

The organisers said that they are also trying to familiarise people about the lesser-known, bigger benefits of embracing these martial arts. “They not only help in full-body empowerment, but discipline you and fight diseases,” added Dr Rajagopal.

Talks on Kalari and Thang-Ta, weapons demonstration cum lectures and training of the basics of these art forms are in the programme’s agenda. Participants will also be given certificates.

“We got good response for the registration call. Many who suffer from body ailments have signed up for the programme, in addition to martial arts enthusiasts,” said an organiser.