For the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, Kalaripayattu has been included as a demonstration event but removed from the competition section.

• Kalaripayattu is one of the most ancient martial traditions, originating in Kerala and traced to the Sangam Period.
• The term ‘Kalari’ refers to the training center, and ‘Payattu’ means the fight or rigorous physical practice.
• Two main styles of Kalaripayattu:
  • Vadakkan or Northern style, practiced in the Malabar region of Kerala.
  • Thekken or Southern style, practiced mainly in the Travancore region.