Kalaripayattu is said to be the "mother of all martial arts" and originated in the south of India. It can be traced back about 3000 years. The martial art is inspired by the strength and graciousness of animals such as the lion, tiger, wild boar, snake or crocodile.
But it is the gracefulness and the almost balletic performances of Kalaripayattu, that sets it apart from most martial arts. (from Luxembourg Word)