Martial arts have enthralled the world since time immemorial, with women playing a larger role in this form of combat than we might imagine. Some of the prominent women who have practised martial arts throughout various stages of human civilization include Yuenu, NG Mui, Yonamine Chiru, Elizabeth Wilkinson, and Edith Garrud. In Greek mythology, we find brave warriors such as Hippolyta, Atlanta, and Penthesilie.

In the Mahabharata, we have our own Warrior Wonder Woman in Chitrangada, the queen of Manipur. Moving to modern times, martial arts has gained prominence among women eager to adapt to different forms of combat training for self-defence against untoward instances. However, martial arts also instil alertness and focus, promoting a balance between mind and body.

As more women face stressful conditions at work and home, multitasking becomes imperative that they receive training in this combative art form. Thus, it’s not just about self-defence but also about maintaining poise and controlling one’s ego. I would also like to highlight the significance of breakfalls, which all women ought to learn.

Though challenging initially, breakfalls prevent everyday falls if learned at a young age, bringing control to the body and avoiding loss of balance. My interest in martial arts developed from movies I have watched, particularly inspired by characters like Beatrix Kiddo in the two-volume film Kill Bill, played by Uma Thurman.

Martial arts such as Jiu Jitsu, Kung Fu, and Kenjitsu not only make women strong but also add grace, as exemplified by Thurman’s character in the film. Another example is Jennifer Lopez’s character, Slim Hiller, in the film Enough, where she uses Krav Maga for self-defence against her abusive husband. Incidentally, Krav Maga, an Israeli martial art, has absorbed many techniques from Japanese Jiu Jitsu.

Most inspiring, however, are the women athletes in the boxing ring or on the wrestling mat. I mention wrestling as it’s considered one of the earliest forms of martial art. I believe these examples are enough to instil interest in an increasing number of women to train in martial arts.

Name: Kalpita Basu

Ranking: Orange Belt

Profession: Journalist, The Economic Times