Source: The post is based on the article “Vajra Mushti Kalaga: A martial art form in terminal decline” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
Vajra mushti kalaga is a martial art form.It has gone extinct and takes place only during Dasara.
What is Vajra Mushti Kalaga?
Source: The Hindu
| Specifications | Details |
| Vajra Mushti Kalaga | It is a Martial Art Form |
| Meaning | Thunderbolt Fist |
| Objective | Neutralize opponent and counter their weapon |
| Technique used | Hand-to-hand combat like grappling, wrestling, and striking |
| Weapon used | Knuckle Duster, a small metal weapon. |
| Knuckle duster Material | Made of animal horns and worn on the knuckles of the fighter |
| Characteristics | It is a form of wrestling different from conventional grappling. In this, two persons take a swipe at each other’s head with a knuckle duster. Whoever draws the blood from the opponent’s head first is declared the winner. |
| Popular During | Vijayanagar rulers (14th-17th centuries) |
| Significance | Noticed by medieval travelers from Portugal during Navaratri celebrations in Vijayanagar empire |
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Paintings and other art forms
