By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
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What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
What is the Bhagavad Gita?
The Srimad Bhagawad Gita, also known as the Bhagavad Gita, is a 700-verse epic that forms a part of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. It is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and mentor. Set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the story unfolds as Arjuna finds himself paralyzed by doubt and moral dilemma before the great war.
The Bhagawad Gita is not a religious text per se, it a text followed religiously in India; it is a practical guide to life. It addresses the fundamental questions of existence, duty, and the nature of reality. Through an intricate blend of philosophy, ethics, and practical wisdom, it offers insights into how we can live an empowered and fulfilling life, while remaining connected to our higher self.
What do the words “Bhagawad” and “Gita” mean?
Bhagawad: The term “Bhagawad” (or “Bhagavad” in more common transliteration) is derived from the Sanskrit word “Bhagavan”, which translates to “the divine one” or “the lord”. In the context of the Bhagavad Gita, it refers to Lord Krishna, who is considered a divine incarnation or an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The use of “Bhagawad” in the title signifies the text’s focus on the teachings and insights provided by this divine being.
Gita: The word “Gita” simply means “song” in Sanskrit. The word “Gita” in Sanskrit also has a broader connotation than just “song”. While it is often translated as “song”, which reflects its poetic and rhythmic quality, “Gita” in this context refers to “word”, “speech”, or “message”.
So the Bhagawad Gita is essentially a conversation, or a divine discourse, where Lord Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to Prince Arjuna. Therefore, the Bhagavad Gita can be thought of as the “Divine Message” or “Divine Speech”.
1. The Essence of the Bhagavad Gita
At the core of the Gita is a profound, universal message applicable to people from all walks of life. It addresses the moral and philosophical dilemmas faced by Arjuna, who stands torn between his duty (Dharma) as a warrior and his moral qualms about fighting his own kin. The Gita, through Krishna’s words, offers guidance not just to Arjuna but to all of us on how to confront and resolve life’s challenges and dilemmas.
2. Krishna and Arjuna: A Timeless Dialogue
The conversation between Krishna and Arjuna is symbolic of the eternal dialogue between the divine and the human spirit. Krishna, as Arjuna’s charioteer, imparts wisdom on various aspects of life, from duty and righteousness to devotion and spirituality. This dialogue transcends time and culture, offering a blueprint for living a life of balance, purpose, and insight.
3. Dharma: The Ethical Compass
Dharma, a key concept in the Gita, represents duty, righteousness, and moral order. It’s about making choices that align with one’s true nature and the greater good. The Gita encourages us to live a life of Dharma, emphasizing the importance of ethical living and moral responsibility.
4. The Gita as a Practical Guide to Life
The Bhagavad Gita is not just a theoretical treatise but a practical guide to living. It speaks to everyday issues and dilemmas, offering a framework for decision-making that balances personal desires with ethical considerations. The Gita teaches us how to live a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
5. Philosophy, Ethics, and Practical Wisdom
The Gita’s teachings encompass a wide range of topics, from the nature of reality to the path to self-realization. It provides a comprehensive view of life, blending philosophical depth with ethical guidelines and practical advice. The wisdom of the Gita helps us navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose.
6. Living an Empowered and Fulfilling Life
The Bhagavad Gita offers invaluable lessons on how to live an empowered life. It teaches us how to face challenges with courage, make decisions with wisdom, and live with a sense of purpose. The Gita shows us how to remain connected to our higher self amid life’s trials and tribulations.
Five Key Takeaways from the Gita
- Duty and Right Action (Dharma):
- Concept: The Gita emphasizes the importance of performing one’s duty (dharma) and right action without attachment to the results.
- Example: Consider a college student or a young professional focused on their studies or career. The Gita teaches to put in the best effort without being overly fixated on grades or promotions. The focus should be on the process and learning, rather than just the end result.
- Mindfulness and Self-Control:
- Concept: The Gita speaks about controlling the mind and senses to achieve inner peace and clarity.
- Example: In an age of constant digital distractions and social media, practicing mindfulness means consciously spending time away from screens, meditating, or engaging in activities that bring mental peace and presence, like hiking or yoga.
- The Concept of Detachment:
- Concept: The Gita advises detachment from the fruits of one’s actions – to act without a selfish desire for personal gain.
- Example: Imagine working on a group project or contributing to a community service. The idea is to contribute your best without being solely driven by personal credit or recognition, but for the greater good of the team or community.
- The Impermanence of Life:
- Concept: The Gita teaches that life is transient and that one should not be overly attached to the material world.
- Example: This can be understood in the context of not getting too caught up in material pursuits like luxury items or social status. It’s about finding value in experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
- Self-Realization and Inner Journey:
- Concept: The Gita places great emphasis on the journey towards self-realization, understanding one’s true self beyond the physical body and mind.
- Example: For a young adult, this could mean exploring personal passions and values, understanding one’s identity and purpose beyond societal labels and expectations, perhaps through travel, introspection, and engaging with diverse cultures and philosophies.
Conclusion
The Bhagavad Gita, with its timeless wisdom, remains a beacon of light guiding us towards a life of meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. It encourages us to live authentically, uphold our duties, and stay connected to our higher self. As a practical guide to life, the Gita offers a path to not only understanding the deeper aspects of existence but also living a life that is truly empowered and fulfilling.
What are Yoga and Meditation?
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite, and it is often translated as “union” or “harmony.”
The earliest mention of yoga can be found in the ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas, which were written between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE. These texts include references to various practices that are associated with yoga, such as meditation, breath control, and the chanting of mantras.
The most famous and influential text on yoga is the Yoga Sutras, which was written by the Indian sage Patanjali in the second century BCE.
The Yoga Sutras is a collection of aphorisms that describe the principles and practices of yoga, including the eight limbs of yoga, which are:
- yama (moral codes),
- niyama (self-purification and study),
- asana (postures),
- pranayama (breath control),
- pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses),
- dharana (concentration),
- dhyana (meditation), and
- samadhi (absorption).
Over the centuries, many other texts have been written on yoga, including the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which was written in the 15th century and describes the physical practices of yoga, such as asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control), as well as the Yoga Upanishads, which are a collection of texts that describe various aspects of yoga philosophy and practice.
In addition to the textual evidence, there are also many archeological and artistic depictions of yoga poses and practices throughout India’s history.
Today, yoga has become a popular form of exercise and spiritual practice around the world, and there are many different styles and approaches to yoga that draw on the ancient traditions of India.
Who are yogis?
Yogis are practitioners of yoga, and are often seen as spiritual seekers or ascetics who have dedicated their lives to the practice of yoga and meditation. In traditional Indian culture, yogis were highly respected for their spiritual insights and wisdom.
Who were the first yogis?
According to Indian teachings and yogic traditions, Adi Yogi, also known as Lord Shiva, is considered the first yogi and the originator of yoga.
According to the legend, Shiva is said to have shared the knowledge of yoga with his seven disciples, known as the Saptarishis (who were the designated survivors of the last Flood) , in the forests of the Himalayas.
These teachings were eventually passed down through the generations and became the basis for many different yoga practices and traditions.
The title of Adi Yogi is given to Shiva because he is believed to have not only practiced yoga, but also to have created and refined it to be used as a tool for spiritual growth and enlightenment. He is also considered the lord of yogis and the ultimate source of yogic knowledge.
In modern times, there are many different interpretations of the story of Adi Yogi and Shiva’s role in the development of yoga, but his legacy is still widely celebrated and revered by many practitioners of yoga and spirituality.
What are different practices used in yoga?
There are many different yogic practices, both well-known and lesser-known. Some of the most well-known yogic practices include:
- Asanas (postures): These physical postures are designed to stretch and strengthen the body, and prepare the mind for meditation.
- Pranayama (breath control): This practice involves regulating the breath, and can be used to calm the mind and increase energy levels.
- Meditation: There are many different types of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and visualization meditation, among others.
- Mudras (hand gestures): These hand gestures are used to direct the flow of energy in the body, and can be used to enhance the benefits of yoga and meditation.
Other lesser-known yogic practices include kriyas (purification techniques), bandhas (energetic locks), and shatkarmas (cleansing practices).
How did Yoga evolve into it’s present form?
The evolution and divergence of yogic practices can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the influence of different teachers and traditions, as well as the social, cultural, and political contexts in which the practices were developed.
Over time, different schools of yoga emerged, each with their own unique approach and philosophy. Today, there are many different styles of yoga, each with its own emphasis and focus.
In recent decades, yoga has become increasingly popular in the Western world, with millions of people practicing it as a form of exercise, stress relief, and overall wellness. This increased popularity has led to the development of new styles of yoga and the creation of many yoga studios and classes around the world.
Yoga was not the only traditional physical activity or practice which originated in India, was it? Are there others?
What are different styles or schools of yoga?
Some of the most well-known schools of yoga include:
- Hatha Yoga: This is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the West, and is characterized by a focus on physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama). Hatha yoga is often used as a general term to refer to any style of yoga that emphasizes physical practice.
- Ashtanga Yoga: This style of yoga, also known as “power yoga,” is a physically demanding practice that involves a specific sequence of postures performed in a continuous flow, synchronized with the breath.
- Iyengar Yoga: This style of yoga is characterized by a focus on alignment and precision in the postures, and often uses props (such as blocks and straps) to help students achieve proper alignment.
- Kundalini Yoga: This style of yoga emphasizes the awakening of the “kundalini energy,” or life force, through a combination of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation.
- Bikram Yoga: This style of yoga involves a specific sequence of 26 postures performed in a heated room, and is often marketed as a form of detoxification and stress reduction.
- Jivamukti Yoga: This style of yoga is characterized by a focus on spirituality and activism, and often incorporates music, chanting, and meditation into the practice.
Each of these schools or styles of yoga has its own unique history, philosophy, and approach to practice. While some schools may have specific founders or gurus associated with them, others may have developed more organically over time.
Yoga was not the only traditional physical activity or practice which originated in India, was it? Are there others?
Yes, of course. Check these out!
How are yoga and meditation connected?
Yoga and meditation are closely connected, as meditation is a key component of the practice of yoga. In fact, the practice of yoga asanas, or postures, is often used as a preparation for meditation, as it helps to calm the mind and release tension in the body.
Yoga is an ancient Indian holistic practice that encompasses physical postures, breath control, meditation, and philosophical principles. The practice of yoga is aimed at achieving a state of balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit.
Meditation, on the other hand, is a specific practice of focusing the mind and cultivating a state of calm and awareness. There are many different forms of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and visualization meditation.
In the context of yoga, meditation is often used as a way to deepen one’s awareness of the body and mind, and to connect with the inner self. By practicing meditation regularly, yoga practitioners can cultivate a sense of inner peace and stillness, and gain insights into the nature of reality and the self.
While yoga and meditation are closely connected, they do have some differences. Yoga is a more physical practice that involves movement and asanas, while meditation is a more mental practice that involves sitting still and focusing the mind. Additionally, while yoga is often practiced in a group setting or in a studio, meditation can be practiced anywhere and at any time, making it more accessible and convenient for many people.
Some commonly known types of meditation
There are many different types of meditation that originated in India, including:
- Vipassana Meditation: This is a Buddhist meditation technique that involves observing the sensations of the body in order to develop insight into the nature of reality.
- Transcendental Meditation: This technique involves the use of a mantra, or a repeated word or phrase, in order to quiet the mind and achieve a state of relaxation and inner peace.
- Yoga Meditation: This type of meditation is often practiced in conjunction with yoga postures and breathing exercises, and involves focusing the mind on the breath or a particular point of concentration in order to quiet the mind and achieve a state of inner peace.
- Mindfulness Meditation: This technique involves bringing one’s attention to the present moment and observing one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment, in order to develop greater self-awareness and mental clarity.
There is no one “best” meditation technique that is popular in India, as different techniques may be more suitable for different individuals based on their personality, lifestyle, and goals. However, Vipassana and Transcendental Meditation are two of the most popular techniques practiced in India and around the world.
Major Schools of Meditation
Here are some more of the major schools or types of meditation, along with a brief description of each and some links to learn more:
Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation: Self-Realization Fellowship was founded by Paramahansa Yogananda in 1920. The organization teaches a system of meditation and spiritual practice that is based on the teachings of the ancient science of Kriya Yoga. The practice involves techniques for controlling the breath and the mind, and for cultivating inner peace and spiritual awareness. Self-Realization Fellowship emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to life that includes physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual development.
Transcendental Meditation (TM) – Developed by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, TM involves the use of a mantra and a particular technique for attaining deep states of relaxation and self-awareness. It is meant to be practiced twice daily for 20 minutes each time. The organization that teaches TM is called the Global Country of World Peace, and their website is tm.org.
Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – Kundalini yoga is a form of yoga that incorporates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. The aim is to awaken the Kundalini energy that is said to reside at the base of the spine and move it upwards through the chakras. Kundalini meditation can involve chanting, visualization, and other techniques meant to help practitioners access higher states of consciousness. The website 3HO.org is a good resource for learning more about Kundalini yoga and meditation.
Art of Living – Founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Art of Living is an organization that teaches a variety of meditation and yoga practices aimed at promoting inner peace and well-being. Their practices often incorporate breathing exercises, chanting, and other techniques meant to reduce stress and increase vitality. The Art of Living website is a good resource for learning more about their practices.
Isha Yoga – Founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, Isha Yoga is a spiritual organization that teaches a variety of yoga and meditation practices aimed at promoting inner transformation and well-being. Their practices often incorporate breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation techniques meant to help practitioners access higher states of consciousness. The Isha Foundation website is a good resource for learning more about their practices.
Zen Meditation: Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes the practice of meditation to achieve enlightenment. Zen meditation, also known as Zazen, involves sitting in a particular posture and focusing on the breath. It also involves working with a teacher, studying Zen texts, and participating in retreats. Zen meditation emphasizes direct experience and does not rely on words or concepts. Zen meditation is often practiced in a group setting in a Zen center or monastery.
What is Mindfulness Meditation? It seems different in the class I took.
The Indian type of meditation that is considered the basis for mindfulness meditation used now everywhere is Vipassana meditation. Vipassana is a Pali word that means “insight” or “clear seeing”. It is a meditation technique that originated in India over 2,500 years ago and was taught by the Buddha himself.
Vipassana meditation involves observing the sensations of the body in order to develop insight into the nature of reality.
Mindfulness meditation, which is now used in many therapeutic settings and is a popular form of meditation practiced in the West, is based on the principles of Vipassana meditation.
It involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, and cultivating an attitude of acceptance, kindness, and curiosity towards one’s experience.
This approach can help individuals to develop greater self-awareness, manage stress and anxiety, and improve their overall well-being.
Martial Arts in India?
Is yoga the only known physical form of exercise or practice that existed in India?
Yoga is not the only physical form of exercise or practice that existed in India. India has a long history of physical practices and exercises that were used to stay in shape and maintain physical fitness.
These physical practices were not limited to the military and were often practiced by ordinary people as well. They were seen as important for maintaining physical health and fitness, as well as for spiritual and mental well-being.
There is an ancient history of martial arts and training with and without weapons, and when weapons were used there were so many and these were not just referred to as a form of martial art, but as a science in the ancient scriptures.
Let us look at just some of the most well known ones:
Varma Kalai
Varma Kalai is a traditional Indian martial art that is primarily focused on vital points of the human body, known as “varma points”.
The word “varma” means “hidden” or “secret” in Tamil, and the art is believed to have originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, where it is still practiced today.
According to legend, Varma Kalai was developed thousands of years ago by the sage Agastya, who is also credited with many other contributions to Tamil culture and tradition, but the true origins of the art are not well documented.
Varma Kalai is known for its emphasis on targeting specific varma points on the body, which are believed to be centers of energy and life force.
By striking or manipulating these points, practitioners of Varma Kalai can theoretically control their opponent’s movements, knock them unconscious, or even kill them.
In addition to its martial applications, Varma Kalai also includes a range of healing techniques, including massage, herbal medicine, and yoga.
Many practitioners of the art believe that the manipulation of varma points can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues, and respiratory problems.
While Varma Kalai is primarily associated with Tamil Nadu, similar practices can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia.
For example, in Thailand, the martial art of Muay Boran includes techniques for striking vital points on the body, and in China, the art of Dim Mak focuses on attacking pressure points to disable or incapacitate an opponent.
Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is a traditional martial art form that originated in the Indian state of Kerala.
It is considered one of the oldest martial arts in the world, with a history that can be traced back over 3,000 years.
The name “Kalaripayattu” is derived from the Malayalam words “kalari” (which means “training hall”) and “payattu” (which means “exercise” or “practice”).
According to legend, Kalaripayattu was created by the sage Parashurama, an avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu. Parashurama is said to have created the art as a means of teaching self-defense to the scholars, yogis and sanyasis (hindu monks), who usually do not carry weapons.
Kalaripayattu is known for its fluid, acrobatic movements, which are designed to improve agility, flexibility, and balance. The art incorporates a wide range of techniques, including strikes, kicks, grappling, and weapons training. Some of the weapons used in Kalaripayattu include the sword, shield, spear, and bow and arrow.
Here is a cool sword fight using this technique in a Jackie Chan movie – The Myth.
In addition to its martial applications, Kalaripayattu also includes a range of healing techniques, such as massage and herbal medicine. The art emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mind-body connection, and practitioners are encouraged to focus on breathing, meditation, and mental discipline.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Silambam in Tamil Nadu and Muay Thai in Thailand. However, Kalaripayattu is considered unique for its combination of physical and spiritual training, as well as its focus on the principles of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine.
Kalaripayattu, in particular, has had a significant influence on the development of other martial arts around the world, including karate, kung fu, and capoeira. The movements and techniques of Kalaripayattu have been incorporated into these martial arts, and many practitioners of these arts recognize the influence of Kalaripayattu on their practices.
The origins of Kalaripayattu can be traced back to ancient India, where it was primarily used as a form of combat training for soldiers. Over time, it evolved into a more holistic practice that included physical, mental, and spiritual training. The transfer of Kalaripayattu to other martial arts around the world is believed to have been influenced by the travels of Indian monks and traders, who spread the practice to other countries.
Gatka
Gatka is a traditional martial art form that originated in the Punjab region of India, which includes parts of present-day India and Pakistan. The art is primarily associated with the Sikh community, and it is considered an important part of Sikh culture and heritage.
Gatka is a weapon-based martial art, with a focus on swordsmanship and stick fighting. The art incorporates a wide range of weapons, including swords, spears, shields, and daggers, as well as empty-hand techniques.
The origins of Gatka can be traced back to the time of the Sikh gurus, who encouraged the practice of martial arts among their followers. According to legend, the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, was a skilled warrior who developed many of the techniques used in Gatka. The art was also used by the Sikhs as a means of defending themselves against the Mughal Empire, which ruled over much of India at the time.
Today, Gatka is primarily practiced as a cultural and spiritual tradition, rather than as a means of self-defense. It is often performed at Sikh festivals and other cultural events, and it is considered an important part of Sikh identity.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Kalaripayattu in Kerala and Silambam in Tamil Nadu. However, Gatka is considered unique for its emphasis on the values of the Sikh faith, such as humility, courage, and self-discipline, and for its incorporation of traditional Punjabi music and dance into the practice.
Silambam
Silambam is a traditional Indian martial art form that originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The art is primarily focused on the use of a long bamboo staff, called a silambam, but it also incorporates a range of empty-hand techniques and other weapons.
The history of Silambam can be traced back over 2,000 years, and it is believed to have been developed by the Tamil people as a means of self-defense and hunting.
The art was also used by the Tamil kings as a means of training their soldiers, and it was an important part of Tamil culture and tradition.
Silambam is known for its fluid, flowing movements, which are designed to improve balance, coordination, and agility. The art incorporates a wide range of techniques, including strikes, blocks, throws, and joint locks, and it places a strong emphasis on footwork and timing.
In addition to its martial applications, Silambam also includes a range of healing techniques, such as massage and herbal medicine. The art emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mind-body connection, and practitioners are encouraged to focus on breathing, meditation, and mental discipline.
Similar martial arts can be found in other parts of India and Southeast Asia, such as Kalaripayattu in Kerala and Arnis in the Philippines. However, Silambam is considered unique for its emphasis on the use of the staff as a primary weapon, as well as its incorporation of traditional Tamil music and dance into the practice.
Malla Yuddha
Malla-yuddha, also known as Mallakamba, is a traditional form of Indian wrestling that originated in Karnataka, a state in southern India. It is a centuries-old martial art that has been practiced in India for generations, and it remains popular in some parts of the country today.
Malla-yuddha involves the use of a wooden pole or rope, which the wrestler uses to perform various acrobatic moves and holds. The goal of the sport is to pin down one’s opponent, using a combination of strength, technique, and strategy. The sport can be performed individually or in teams, and competitions are typically held in arenas or open spaces.
Historically, Malla-yuddha was a popular form of combat training among warriors and soldiers in ancient India. It was considered an important skill for defending oneself and one’s community, and it was often incorporated into military training programs. Over time, Malla-yuddha became more of a recreational sport, and it is now primarily practiced for entertainment and cultural reasons.
There are similar forms of wrestling and martial arts that exist in other parts of the world, such as Sumo wrestling in Japan, Pehlwani in Pakistan, and Shuai Jiao in China. While the techniques and rules may differ, these practices all share a common focus on grappling, throwing, and pinning down one’s opponent, making them similar in some ways to Malla-yuddha.
Mardani Khel
The martial art from Maharashtra that was popularized by the Maratha Empire is called “Mardani Khel”.
It is a traditional Indian martial art form that originated in the province of Sindh (now part of Pakistan) and was later adopted and developed by the Maratha warriors.
Mardani Khel emphasizes physical fitness, agility, and strength training, as well as weapon-based combat. It is said to be based on the movements and behavior of various animals, such as the lion, tiger, snake, and peacock, and incorporates a variety of weapons including swords, shields, daggers, and spears.
The Maratha Empire, which ruled over large parts of present-day India in the 17th and 18th centuries, was known for its military prowess and use of Mardani Khel in battle. The Maratha warrior-king Shivaji is said to have been a skilled practitioner of the martial art, and he used it to great effect in his battles against the Mughal Empire.
Today, efforts are being made to revive and promote Mardani Khel as a cultural and martial heritage of Maharashtra. While it is not as well-known or widely practiced as some other Indian martial arts, Mardani Khel remains an important part of the martial history and traditions of Maharashtra and the Maratha people.
Thang Ta
Thang Ta, also known as Huyen lallong, is a martial art form that originated in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. It is a combination of two different martial art forms – Thang Ta (sword and spear) and Sarit Sarak (hand to hand combat).
Thang Ta involves the use of swords and spears, and Sarit Sarak is focused on unarmed combat. Together, they form a comprehensive system of self-defense that emphasizes fluidity, grace, and speed.
The history of Thang Ta dates back to the ancient times when the people of Manipur used these techniques to defend themselves against neighboring tribes and other threats. It was also used by Manipuri kings and warriors during battles and conflicts.
Today, Thang Ta is primarily practiced as a form of cultural preservation and is performed during festivals and other celebrations in Manipur. It has also gained popularity as a form of physical exercise and self-defense in other parts of India and around the world.
While Thang Ta is a unique martial art form, there are some similarities with other martial arts in Southeast Asia, such as Silat from Indonesia, Kali from the Philippines, and Muay Boran from Thailand. These martial arts share some similar techniques and philosophies, including an emphasis on fluid movement, weapon-based combat, and close-range fighting.
Other Martial arts
Other traditional martial arts & practices in the Indian subcontinent that have either been lost or are not widely practiced anymore.
Huyen langlon
Huyen langlon is a traditional martial art from Assam that shares many similarities with Thang Ta. It combines unarmed combat with the use of weapons, including swords, spears, and sticks.
Mukna
Mukna is a traditional form of wrestling from Assam that incorporates elements of striking and grappling. It is believed to have originated over 500 years ago and was traditionally practiced by men from the Meitei community.
Buroi chikhong
Buroi chikhong is a traditional stick fighting style from Assam that involves the use of a long bamboo stick. It is primarily practiced by the Karbi and Dimasa communities and is often performed during festivals and other celebrations.
Lathi khela
Lathi khela, which is also practiced in other parts of the Indian subcontinent, is a traditional martial art that involves the use of a long bamboo stick.
Ghatta kala
Ghatta kala was a traditional martial art from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh that was practiced primarily by the Jat community. It involved the use of a short stick and a small shield and incorporated a range of techniques, including striking, blocking, and joint locks.
Marma Adi
Marma Adi is a martial art from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu that incorporates elements of Kalaripayattu and Varma Kalai. It focuses on the use of pressure points and joint locks and emphasizes the importance of meditation and internal energy.
Adimurai
Adimurai is a traditional martial art form that originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. It is believed to be used since over 2,000 years.
Adimurai is a combination of various techniques such as hand-to-hand combat, grappling, weapons training, and other self-defense techniques. Adimurai is similar in some ways to other Indian martial arts such as Kalaripayattu and Silambam, but it also has unique features that distinguish it from these other styles. Adimurai was traditionally practiced by the warrior class in Tamil Nadu, and was used to defend against invading armies and other threats.
Cheruvadi
Cheruvadi is a martial art from the southern Indian state of Kerala that is similar to Kalaripayattu but places more emphasis on weapon-based combat.
Nati
Nati is a martial art from the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh that incorporates elements of Kalaripayattu and is primarily focused on unarmed combat and self-defense.
Kusti
Kusti, also known as Indian wrestling, is a traditional form of wrestling that is popular in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It involves grappling and submission holds, and is typically performed on a dirt surface.
These traditional martial arts practices continue to be an important part of India’s cultural heritage and history. While they may not be as well-known as some of the more popular martial arts practices from other parts of India and the region, they did exist – and sadly not all of them are practiced anymore.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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