Karrasamu, a traditional martial art

Form of Andhra Pradesh, is seeing a revival in Visakhapatnam

young generation to stay connected to their roots.

Karrasamu dates back to several centuries in Andhra Pradesh. This martial art evolved as a means of self-defence to prevent thefts and robbery, common in villages in the past. The art was passed down through generations. The name ‘Karra’ translates to stick and ‘samu’ refers to ghting or combat.

A way of life

Karrasamu practitioners say that the martial art is not just a form of self defense; it is a way of life. “The sport also helps one remain alert and aware of his/her surroundings,” says Lakshman and adds that this is one of the reasons the sport has been steadily drawing girls.

“It teaches discipline, concentration and self-control. I also feel empowered in many ways,” says 27-year-old P Sudha, a national silver medalist in karrasamu. Sudha, who has been undergoing training at the Baldev’s Indian Traditional Martial Arts, says her journey in the martial art has been a life changing experience. “I feel more con dent and my exibility and energy have gone up considerably. The journey has been hugely empowering for me,” says Sudha.

For B Mahalakshmi, a student of grade 10, karrasamu has improved her concentration levels and arm strength. At 58, S Narayana started training recently when he was looking for ways to pass time after dropping his son to his college and classes in the city. It didn’t take him long to get hooked on to the visually captivating and energetic martial art form during one of his walks at the Central Park. “I am a regular here now; it is a meditative experience that I look forward to every day,” he adds.

Practitioners undergo rigorous training to master these techniques, which include a warm-up session of running around a section of the park, followed by an array of kicks, blocks and grappling maneuvers. Lakshman has also introduced other traditional martial art forms such as Gatka, which has its roots in Punjab, Silambam of Tamil Nadu and Kattisamu (sword ght).

Like many traditional martial arts, Karrasamu faces challenges in the modern era. While it ghts for the spotlight amidst the allure of contemporary combat sports and other lifestyle changes, Karrasamu is not recognised under the sports quota by the State Government. “Despite its ancient roots and many national medallists from Andhra Pradesh, Karrasamu hasn’t got any recognition, unlike other traditional martial arts like Silambam, which was recognised by the Tamil Nadu government in 2021,” rues Lakshman. Lack of infrastructure support is another deterrent for this traditional martial

art.