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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Central Kalaripayattu (Madhya Kalari) from Central Kerala, India, blends Northern high acrobatics with Southern close-quarters Marma vital point strikes. The 5-level structure from Meippayattu body conditioning, wooden Kolthari, and metal Ankathari weapons to Verumkai leads to the master Gurukkal rank.

1st Level – Meippayattu

MeippayattuRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Chuvadu stances, acrobatic leaps, and body flexibility conditioning.

Symbolism & Meaning

Central Kalaripayattu style merging Northern acrobatics with Southern direct strikes.

2nd Level – Kolthari

KolthariRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Long staff Kettukari, short stick Cheruvadi, and curved Otta stick combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Otta is a tusk-shaped wooden weapon designed for Marma vital point strikes.

3rd Level – Ankathari

AnkathariRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Val sword & Paricha shield combat, Kadthara dagger, and flexible Urumi whip-sword.

Symbolism & Meaning

Urumi is the deadliest flexible blade requiring absolute concentration.

4th Level – Verumkai

VerumkaiRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Barehand sword/staff disarming, 108 Marma vital point strikes, and joint locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Only after mastering all weapons does the warrior learn pure unarmed combat.

5th Level – Gurukkal (Master & Healer)

Gurukkal MadhyaRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest spiritual and medical rank. Kalari Chikitsa healing massages and arena master.

Symbolism & Meaning

Gurukkal = Master who can both destroy and heal/save human life.