Mallakamb: The art of aerial yoga

A performer practices ‘Mallakamb ’ (traditional Indian gymnastics) during a rehearsal for the upcoming annual Rath Yatra, or chariot procession, in Ahmedabad, India. (Amit Dave / REUTERS)

Updated on: Jun 11, 2017 11:56 PM IST

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A performer practices ‘Mallakamb ’ (traditional Indian gymnastics) during a rehearsal for the upcoming annual Rath Yatra, or chariot procession, in Ahmedabad, India. (Amit Dave / REUTERS)

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A traditional Indian sport, Mallakamb involves a gymnast performing feats with a vertical wooden pole or rope. (Toshifumi KITAMURA / AFP)

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The earliest mention of Mallkhamb can be traced back to the 12th century where it is mentioned in the classic ‘Manasolhas’ (1135 A.D.).F (Amit Dave / REUTERS)

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Mallakhand was said to be practised in medieval Maharashtra and Hyderabad, but was not so popular and well recorded until the 18th century until it was revived by Balambhatdada Deodhar, the fitness instructor of Peshwa Baji Rao II. (Amit Dave / REUTERS)

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Indian gymnast coach Jayeshbhai Kacha (C) and his young students take part in a Mallakhamb practice session at CN Sports Academy. (Toshifumi KITAMURA / AFP)

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On April 9, 2013, Madhya Pradesh declared mallakhamb as the state sport. And today, 20 states have included it among others as a state sport. (Sam PANTHAKY / AFP)

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In earlier times Mallakhamnbh was a way to stay fit, but now it is considered as art rather than a method of training. (Toshifumi KITAMURA / AFP)

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Indian gymnast coach, Jayeshbhai Kacha (C) and his young students pray before practising Mallakhamb at CN Sports Academy . (Sam PANTHAKY / AFP)