Chapter 5: Martial Arts
I hope everyone can judge these examples of Indian martial arts that will be used in the story! (These are just a few examples)
1. Agnikalari
This one's based on Kalaripayattu, but with a focus on aggressive, explosive movements. It's all about speed—sharp strikes, powerful kicks, and quick spins that keep your opponent off balance. The training emphasizes breathing control to generate bursts of strength, almost like igniting a fire in your body. There's a move called Agnichakra, where you spin into a kick so fast it's hard to see it coming. It's graceful but deadly.
2. Jalatantra
Think of Jalatantra as the martial art that flows like water. It's weapon-based, mostly using staffs or swords, and every movement is smooth and circular. It's not about brute force—it's about redirecting an opponent's attacks, like water pushing around a rock. Fighters often use a staff in spinning motions to defend and counter at the same time. A signature move is Samudra Gati, where you keep spinning your weapon to create a rhythm that traps your enemy.
3. Vayumargam
This one's more about precision and agility, like the wind itself. It's heavily inspired by Varma Kalai, focusing on hitting weak points in the body. Practitioners are light on their feet, always moving, always evading. There's a technique called Vayu Tala, where you strike multiple pressure points in quick succession, disorienting your opponent without seriously injuring them. It's fast and elegant.
4. Bhumikavach
This is the grounded, heavy style, inspired by Mardani Khel. It focuses on strong, stable stances and overwhelming force. Fighters use shields and short swords, but the real strength is in their ability to absorb attacks and then counter with devastating power. There's a technique called Bhumi Shakti, where you stomp the ground mid-combat to throw your opponent off balance—it's simple but effective.
5. Akasha Vidya
This style is all about aerial movement and acrobatics. It's influenced by Mallakhamb, where fighters train using poles and ropes. Practitioners are incredibly agile and unpredictable, often flipping and leaping to attack from unexpected angles. There's a move called Akasha Chakra, where you somersault over an opponent and land behind them for a quick counterstrike. It's flashy but takes serious skill to pull off.
6. Shaktipat Yuddha
This is a straightforward, raw combat style inspired by Musti Yuddha. It focuses on punches, grapples, and body strength, but the secret lies in controlling your inner energy—or Shakti. Fighters use breathing techniques to gather power for explosive punches. One move, Shakti Pradhaar, lets you throw a punch that feels like a battering ram, but it takes practice to master.
7. Varunastra Kala
This one's all about weapons, especially swords. It's heavily inspired by Gatka but with more fluid, adaptive techniques. Fighters are trained to handle multiple weapons and switch between them seamlessly. A favorite move is Varuna Vihara, where you feint with one weapon to distract your enemy, then strike with another. It's clever and keeps opponents guessing.
8. Niyuddha Samhita
This is the most philosophical of the styles. It's unarmed and focuses on balance, timing, and minimal effort. Instead of overpowering an enemy, you use their own strength against them. There's a move called Sthira Hasta, where you redirect a punch or grab, turning their force into an opening for your counter. It's subtle and requires a lot of patience and control.