Gurukkal Blogs

Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh   The Mighty Gada Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh           T he gada, a formidable weapon, has a deep-rooted significance in Indian martial traditions, especially in the epics and lore of ancient warriors. In Kalaripayattu, the wooden gada serves as both a training tool for muscle development and a weapon in combat.           The gada holds a prominent place in Indian mythology and history. It is best known as the weapon of Hanuman, the mighty Vanara, and a key figure in the Ramayana. Hanuman’s gada symbolizes strength, loyalty, and unwavering devotion, attributes that are central to the martial spirit. In the Mahabharata, the gada is wielded Bhima and Duryodhana , two of the greatest warriors in the Kurukshetra War. The infamous duel between Bhima and Duryodhana using gadas remains one of the most iconic battles in the epic, where Bhima uses his immense power to strike Duryodhana down.             In Kalaripayattu, the use of the gada is both symbolic and practical