Indian martial art Kalarippayattu; 270 students stood in the formation of a falcon sets Guinness World Record

Kalari Club Dubai in association with Dubai Police attempted and achieved the record of the most people performing Kalarippayattu simultaneously, as part of the UAE National Day celebrations. A total of 270 students of the Indian martial art Kalarippayattu, ranging between the ages of 4 and 60, stood in the formation of a falcon to set a new Guinness World Record. The participants and their families cheered and clapped as the adjudicator completed his inspection and announced the record before handing over the plaque. 

Kalari is widely considered the oldest martial art, which is over 3,000 years old, and is often referred to as the mother of all martial arts. It is thought to be the first time in Kalari’s history that a Guinness world record has been set.

There was a display of the art of Kalari on the grounds of the general department of protective security and emergency of Dubai Police in Satwa before the record attempt. The demonstration showed Kalari fights using swords, knives and sticks. Barehanded fighting and self-defence techniques were also shown.

The record attempt was the brainchild of Dr. Rahis Gurukkal, the founder and principal coach of the club. “The reason we chose to form a falcon is because we wanted to pay homage to the UAE as our home country,” he said. “It has been over two years since I set up the institute and we have gone from strength to strength. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach this martial art here, so I wanted to do something to honour the country.”

All participating members filed into their respective, pre-marked positions from the tail to the outer wing, as the organisers began the attempt. Once everyone was in place, Dr Rahis led the formation and commanded the students to perform their movements.

Kalari is divided into four stages, Meipayattu (training stances), Kolthari (practice with wooden weapons), Angathari (practice with metal weapons) and Verum kai prayogam (barehanded combat). Belts are awarded as the students make progress in their technical prowess.