German Woman Takes Training In Ancient Indian Martial Art In Pune
German Woman Takes Training In Ancient Indian Martial Art In Pune
Manasi Patil
A young woman named Latoya Wild, age 30 from Germany has arrived in Pune to learn the traditional Maratha martial art, Mardani Khel. She is training at the Shri Shivajiraje Mardani Akhada in Shivajinagar from August 27 to September 7. Her training includes various skills such as stick fighting, swordplay, and the use of traditional weapons like the danda and pattas.
The daily training schedule is from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Rokdoba Mandir Hall.
Head coach, Vijay Awayale Patil said, “Last year, women from Italy and Spain also trained at this akhada. Latoya is a very dedicated woman and though doctors have now put knee bandages on her still she’s practicing everyday.”
Mardani Khel, a 1,500-year-old weapon-based martial art from Maharashtra, was pivotal in Maratha warfare and involves techniques for using weapons such as swords and sticks. It is also known for its focus on human anatomy during combat.
The Shri Shivajiraje Mardani Akhada has been teaching this art for 25 years, with around 150 students attending daily sessions. The training is open to everyone, including men, women, IT professionals, homemakers, and foreign nationals.
Head Coach Vijay Ayawale Patil, who learned the art in Kolhapur, believes Mardani Khel is highly relevant today and advocates for its recognition as a national sport. The monthly fee for training is Rs 1,000.
The students of this akhada also showcase their skills during the Ganesh Utsav procession every year.
