Silambam is an ancient stick martial art from Tamil Nadu. According to Sangam-era literature, there were a number of exercise centres called silambak-koodams all over the Dravida Nadu region.  The age-old art form -patronized by the Chera, Chola and Pandya rulers – is recorded as one of the 64 art forms of ancient India. The Tamil word “Silam” means hills and the Marhat word “Mambam” means bamboo (hence, ‘bamboo from the hills’). These bamboo sticks are commonly found on the hills in this  region of India.

Silambam’ssalient features are its well-structured techniques, fluid footwork, and smart fighting strategies  premised upon the use of a bamboo stick to protect oneself from animals (and  humans!).