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With rare exception, the practice of kalarippayattu today has
become more about actualizing and harnessing one's bodymind and
powers for use in daily life and, therefore, in shaping certain
kinds of "selves" rather than about preparing for an
actual fight to the death.
One master, well trained in both kalarippayattu and yoga,
asserted that if one learns kalarippayattu properly, then "he
should gain release from unhappiness". However, he also
noted soberly, "Many practitioners have turned out to be
wasters, drunks, and of bad morals." He cited the example
of Chandu from the northern ballads, the infamous anti-hero who,
bought off by money and a promise of the affection of a beautiful
young woman, betrayed his cousin, Aromar.
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