Introduction / Context:
India has a rich heritage of traditional martial arts, dance forms, and sports. Questions on state specific art forms help test regional cultural awareness. Kalarippayattu also spelled Kalaripayattu is widely considered one of the oldest fighting systems in the world and is closely associated with the culture of a specific Indian state.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The martial art in question is Kalarippayattu Kalaripayattu.
- Four states are listed: Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Kerala.
- We are asked to identify the state with which this martial art is traditionally associated.
- We assume the standard cultural mapping used in school textbooks.
Concept / Approach:
Kalarippayattu is an ancient martial art that involves armed and unarmed combat, acrobatics, and yogic elements. It is practised mainly in Kerala and parts of neighbouring regions, and many cultural sources refer to it as a hallmark of Kerala s traditional warrior culture. The correct approach is to recall the cultural heritage mapping of Indian states and link Kalarippayattu with Kerala.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall from general knowledge that Kalarippayattu is a famous traditional martial art of southern India.
Step 2: Remember that it originated and is most widely practised in Kerala.
Step 3: Look at the options and identify Kerala as the only southern coastal state among them.
Step 4: Recognise that Madhya Pradesh is in central India, while Mizoram and Nagaland are in the north eastern region with different local martial practices.
Step 5: Based on this cultural association, choose Kerala as the correct answer.
Verification / Alternative check:
Tourism brochures of Kerala, cultural documentaries, and school level social science books all mention Kalarippayattu as a specialty of Kerala. It is often demonstrated in cultural shows for tourists visiting the state. Many competitive exam guides also list it under the heading Martial arts and associated states, confirming that linking Kalarippayattu to Kerala is accurate.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Madhya Pradesh: Known more for tribal dances and classical heritage sites, not for Kalarippayattu.
Mizoram: Has its own traditional sports and dances, but Kalarippayattu is not one of them.
Nagaland: Also has unique tribal festivals and martial traditions, yet Kalarippayattu does not originate from this state.
Common Pitfalls:
Some students mix up Indian martial arts, for example confusing Kalarippayattu of Kerala with other forms like Silambam from Tamil Nadu or Thang ta from Manipur. A simple memory trick is to connect the sound Kalari with Kerala, as both begin with a similar syllable and are frequently mentioned together in cultural context.
Final Answer:
Kalarippayattu is the traditional martial art of
Kerala.
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