Reviving Tradition: Karsamu Makes a Comeback in Andhra Pradesh’s Martial Arts Scene
Here are 10 key points summarizing the main aspects of the article:
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Revival of Karsamu: The traditional martial art form of Karsamu, originating from Andhra Pradesh, is experiencing a revival in Visakhapatnam, attracting a diverse group of practitioners.
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Training at Central Park: Daily training sessions occur at VMRDA Central Park, where participants, ranging from ages five to sixty, engage in rigorous practice that emphasizes coordination and skill.
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Role of Coach: Ba Laxman Dev, a dedicated coach and third-generation practitioner, has trained hundreds of individuals over the past 15 years, significantly increasing the martial art’s popularity.
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Cultural Importance: Laxman emphasizes the role of Karsamu in preserving cultural heritage and encourages its inclusion in school curricula to connect younger generations with their roots.
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Historical Background: Karsamu has a rich history, serving as a means of self-defense in rural communities over the centuries, with its name derived from terms meaning "stick" and "to fight."
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Benefits of Practice: Practitioners report various benefits, including enhanced concentration, physical fitness, and increased self-awareness, which contribute to personal empowerment.
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Inclusivity of Age: Karsamu welcomes participants from all age groups, demonstrating its accessibility and adaptability as a sport that can be practiced at any life stage.
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Rigorous Training Regimen: Training includes warm-ups, strikes, blocks, and an array of martial techniques to develop strength and agility among the practitioners.
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Challenges Faced: Despite its cultural significance and history, Karsamu struggles for recognition and support compared to other martial arts, facing challenges like lack of governmental endorsement and infrastructure.
- Community Impact: The martial art not only serves as a physical activity but also brings together community members, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences among practitioners.
Reviving Karsamu: A Journey Through Traditional Martial Arts in Visakhapatnam
At VMRDA Central Park in Visakhapatnam, a palpable energy resonates as practitioners of Karsamu—an age-old martial art from Andhra Pradesh—come together in a spirited display of skill. Holding wooden sticks, this diverse group—ranging from young children to seasoned adults—embodies the essence of concentration and dynamism. With a fluidity that reveals their dedication, they perform intricate attacks and graceful blocks, a testament to the beauty of Karsamu, often referred to as stick fencing.
This revival of a traditional martial art is predominantly credited to Ba Laxman Dev and his institute, Baldev, which has become a sanctuary for aspiring martial artists. Each morning at 6 AM, about 50 students, aged between five and sixty, gather in the park, embracing the rigorous regimen that combines striking kicks, swift punches, and complex footwork, all in pursuit of mastery.
A Legacy of Martial Arts
Laxman, a native of Srikakulam, is a third-generation practitioner who learned Karsamu from his father and grandfather. Over the last 15 years, he has successfully instructed hundreds of students in Visakhapatnam and nearby districts, contributing to a significant resurgence in interest in this traditional form. "When I first arrived in Visakhapatnam, very few people were eager to learn this sport," Laxman recalls. However, a growing awareness of the benefits of traditional martial arts, such as increased flexibility, focus, and overall fitness, has fueled its popularity. His vision also includes integrating traditional sports into school curriculums to help preserve cultural heritage while engaging the youth.
The Rich History of Karsamu
Karsamu’s roots trace back centuries in Andhra Pradesh, originally conceived as a self-defense mechanism against theft and violence. The word ‘Curr,’ meaning stick, pairs with ‘Sama,’ which implies to fight or resist. Beyond serving as mere combat techniques, practitioners consider martial arts a way of life, reflecting discipline, self-awareness, and mindfulness.
Laxman emphasizes that martial arts also foster vigilance, helping individuals stay aware of their surroundings. P. Sudha, a national silver medalist in Karsamu, echoes his sentiments. "Training in Karsamu has transformed my life," she states. "I feel confident, and my energy levels have skyrocketed."
Students like B. Mahalakshmi, a tenth-grader, affirm that Karsamu has significantly improved her concentration and hand strength. S. Narayan, at 58, found himself drawn to Karsamu while seeking pastimes after dropping his son off at college. "My casual walks turned into a dedicated practice, and I look forward to it every day," he shares, revealing how martial arts provide focus and an invigorating experience.
Training and Techniques
The journey into mastering Karsamu is rigorous. Practitioners begin with warm-up exercises, including jogging through the park, followed by a disciplined series of kicks, blocks, and movements. Laxman also introduces other traditional martial arts forms such as Gutka—a combat style from Punjab—and Silambam from Tamil Nadu, showcasing the rich tapestry of martial arts culture.
Despite its ancient significance, Karsamu grapples with challenges in the modern landscape. Competing for attention amid numerous contemporary sports, it struggles to gain official recognition from the state government. Laxman mentions that, unlike other traditional martial arts like Silambam, which received state acknowledgment, Karsamu’s rich heritage has yet to be embraced under the sports quota. Furthermore, the lack of infrastructure support poses limitations on its growth and visibility.
Looking Ahead
The future of Karsamu rests in the hands of dedicated individuals like Laxman and his students, who continue to propagate the art form’s values and techniques. As they train diligently at VMRDA Central Park, they embody the spirit of resilience and cultural pride, ensuring that this martial art does not fade into obscurity.
In essence, the revival of Karsamu in Visakhapatnam serves not only as a martial arts practice but also as a bridge connecting younger generations to their cultural roots. As participants swing their sticks in synchronized harmony, they nurture a thriving community enriched by tradition, discipline, and mutual growth—an inspiring narrative in the ever-evolving tapestry of martial arts.
