Urumi swords are a unique type of sword that originates from the southern Indian state of Kerala. These swords are also known as chuttuval, which means 'coiled sword' in the Malayalam language, and are considered one of the most dangerous and challenging weapons to master.
Unlike traditional swords, the urumi sword is made up of flexible, narrow blades that are typically around three to four feet in length. These blades are made from spring steel and are interlinked with a central handle, which is usually made from brass or bronze. The flexibility of the blades allows the sword to be used as both a cutting and a whipping weapon, giving the user a wider range of attack options.
The urumi sword is said to have been developed in response to the challenges of fighting in the dense forests of Kerala, where traditional swords and other weapons were often unsuitable. The urumi's flexibility and range of motion made it ideal for close-quarters combat, allowing fighters to strike from unexpected angles and quickly change their attack style.
However, the urumi sword is also notoriously difficult to master. The blades require a great deal of skill to handle, as they can be dangerous not only to opponents but to the user as well. The sword's flexible blades can easily wrap around an opponent's weapon, which can leave the user vulnerable to counter-attacks. Furthermore, the sword can be difficult to control and is prone to whipping back towards the user if not handled properly.
Despite the challenges associated with using the urumi sword, it remains a popular weapon among martial artists and sword enthusiasts. Its unique design and versatility have led to it being used in Indian martial arts Kalarippayattu.
