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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.

Northern Kalaripayattu (Vadakkan) from Kerala, India, is renowned for dynamic high-flying acrobatics and weapon mastery. Training progresses through 4 core phases: Meippayattu (body flexibility), Kolthari (wooden weapons), Ankathari (sharp metal sword, shield, and Urumi whip-sword), and Verumkai (unarmed combat and Marma vital points).

1st Level – Meippayattu

MeippayattuRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Body flexibility, Vadivu animal stances (lion, cobra, elephant), and leaps.

Symbolism & Meaning

Northern Kalaripayattu style from Kerala famous for dynamic acrobatics.

2nd Level – Kolthari (Wooden Weapons)

KolthariRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

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

Symbolism & Meaning

Otta is an elephant-tusk shaped stick designed for marma vital point strikes.

3rd Level – Ankathari (Metal Weapons)

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 (Unarmed Self-Defense)

VerumkaiRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

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

Symbolism & Meaning

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

5th Level – Gurukkal (Master & Healer)

Gurukkal VadakkanRank #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.