Senator Robin Padilla recently shared a throwback moment from his time in Kerala, India, where he studied Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest known martial arts traditions in Asia.
In a Facebook post dated January 12, Padilla reposted a photo originally shared by a netizen identified as Regor Maomay. The image showed the senator striking a martial arts pose, which he said was taken during the period when he was training in the discipline.
“Kerala, India. Ito ang panahon na pinag-aralan ko ang kanilang martial art na kalaripayat,” Padilla wrote.
He added that, based on the narratives and beliefs shared by Indian instructors and locals, Kalaripayattu is considered older than Chinese kung fu. Padilla was careful to clarify that this claim reflects Indian tradition and not his own personal assertion.
“[Ayon] sa kanila mas matanda daw [ito] sa [Kung Fu]. [Ayon ‘yon] sa kwento/narrative ng mga Indian, hindi sa akin,” he explained.
Padilla further noted that Kalaripayattu is often linked through legend to Bodhidharma, a revered figure associated with the spread of Chan Buddhism during the fifth to sixth centuries and frequently cited in martial arts lore across Asia.
“Mga alamat na nag-uugnay nito kay Guru Bodhi Dharma,” he added.
Kalaripayattu, which originated in southern India, is known for its emphasis on flexibility, agility, weapon-based techniques, and healing practices.
