The origin of martial arts in India dates back thousands of years, with a rich history deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural and philosophical traditions. Various forms of martial arts have evolved in different regions of India, contributing to a diverse tapestry of combat techniques, self-defence methods, and physical disciplines.

Martial Arts is a part of India’s ancient culture and traditional games. Initially, a conventional martial art form that originated in Kerala, Southern India, in the cultural context of various regions in India, it takes on diverse names and forms.

In ancient India, martial arts were deeply embedded in the cultural and historical fabric. Traditional practices like Kalaripayattu, an ancient and highly revered form of martial art, flourished and gained prominence in the cultural composition of the region. These arts were not just for combat but were integrated into various aspects of life, including physical fitness, self-defence, and spiritual development. They were often passed down through generations and played a significant role in traditional Indian warfare and physical education systems.

Current Status:

Various forms of Indian martial arts have originated in diverse regions, each carrying its unique history, styles, and techniques. While Karate and Kung Fu enjoy global recognition, lesser-known arts like Silambattam, Kalaripayattu and Gatka have struggled to find a place in the international spotlight. This lack of acknowledgement can be attributed to the diminishing patronage that Indian martial arts once received.

Compounding the issue is the fact that Indian martial arts are not officially recognised as sports within the country, further diminishing their visibility and support. 

The inadequate support for martial arts in India is concerning, impacting both cultural preservation and physical well-being. Inadequate funding and a lack of a cohesive national policy hinder the development of infrastructure, training programs, and competitions. A more comprehensive and supportive approach is needed to recognize the cultural and societal benefits of martial arts, fostering their growth and positive contribution towards nation-building.

Consequently, the decline of these martial art forms is evident, with only a few villages managing to preserve these traditions. However, even in these remaining pockets, the influence of foreign practices has begun to erode the once-strong connection to native culture.

Reason For Decline Of Martial Arts In India

1. Colonial Era: During the colonial period, various traditional practices, including martial arts, faced suppression and decline under British rule.

2. Restricted Martial Arts Exposure: Traditional martial arts might not have received as much active promotion and marketing as some other sports and fitness activities. Insufficient awareness and promotion led to a decrease of interest and participation in martial arts.

3. Lack of Institutional Support: Traditional martial arts may face challenges in terms of institutional support, funding, and recognition, which could impact their popularity compared to sports with better institutional backing.

Additional factors leading to the downfall of Martial Arts in India include modernization, changing fitness trends, urbanization and space constraints. 

In considering the journey of Martial Arts in India, exploring its ancient roots, seen in disciplines like Kalaripayattu, unveils a rich cultural history. However, the present status shows a subtle transition, with traditional practices facing a noticeable decline. Despite the challenges, comparing ancient glory with current issues emphasises the importance of efforts to revive and sustain these invaluable martial traditions in the ever-changing landscape of Indian society.

However, In recent years, there has been a notable resurgence in the practice and recognition of martial arts. This renewed interest can be attributed to several factors, including a growing appreciation for the holistic benefits of martial arts beyond self-defence. Many individuals are recognizing the physical fitness, mental discipline, and cultural richness embedded in various martial arts traditions. Additionally, increased media representation, participation in competitive events, and the influence of martial arts in popular culture have contributed to its revival. 

This trend suggests a positive shift towards embracing the diverse and enriching aspects of martial arts in contemporary society. We are keeping a close watch on how this progresses to ensure continued support and development in the future.

Resources:

https://www.auchitya.com/ancient-martial-art-forms-of-india-that-are-rapidly-declining/
https://www.reddit.com/r/martialarts/comments/1k9ovs/why_indian_martial_arts_are_not_so_popular/?rdt=50533