When we used to come for our vacations the guys used to go for Kalari practice. But once back there in the US, the practices die a natural death. But this time it was different. Last time we found a Kalari Asan/master, who was really good. He is very gentle, not at all harsh or rigid. Last time he used to come home and teach them but this time we decided to go to his place two days a week and he said he will come home and teach one day.
I saw two teenage boys and a little girl along with two adults when we reached his practicing place. The guys started practicing and I sat there to watch. Watching this ancient martial art form is so fascinating. After about an hour Asan’s son came, he is an engineering student. He started practicing with the other guys there as they had a program at a nearby temple that day. He and another guy did a display with regular sword and shield. I saw sparks coming out every time the sword made contact with the shield. It was so interesting. Then he took the Churika and I felt a little bit nervous. This is no child’s toy. I didn’t want to sit in the same room with the Churika, the long belt like sword. I had to hold my breath and sit tight. I was wondering what if the sword breaks away or slips from his hand?? One of my limbs would surely be on the floor. Every time the guy came closer I didn’t want to open my eyes. Just as I feared among the 3 Churikas one of them broke off from its handle and fell down. Thank god it fell when he was not doing any actions! But the kind of control this guy had was simply amazing. He looked quite dangerous with that weapon. I could relax only after he stopped practicing with that sword.
My son was very happy when he was given a long rod to practice with, and he hit his own head more than one time with that rod, that was the best part.:) I am glad the guys started this again.
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