Kalari Deities and Rituals

There is a whole lot of metaphysical beliefs according to which, the structure of a Kalari symbolised the universe. Starting from the touch of the ground when entering into the Kalari with the right hand to evoke the goddess of the Earth, to the Kalari mayikka by throwing Cheruvati to the south-west corner of the Kalari or blowing a conch-shell at the end of the day's training, have ritualistic and metaphysical implications.
The life of a combatant is precarious and will have to face the challenge of death, any time. This naturally persuaded him to seek the blessings of the supernatural powers. Hindu beliefs have deeply influenced the Kalari concept. Muslims and Christians follow their own religious traditions, in their Kalaries.

It is believed that a Kalari has forty five patron deities. Each deity is allotted a particular place or position. A combatant has to worship these deities physically and mentally by proper prostration and gestures. The Tumba and Ocium flowers, tulsi (Ocium sanctum) leaves, oil lamps, hand-mirror, conch, etc. are used daily in the propitiative rituals in favour of the gods and goddesses of kalaries. Although the kalari is an empty space, for a student, this space has all the meanings of life super nature.