THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It was not so long ago that movies featuring Thai martial artist and actor
Tony Jaa garnered the attention of youths in the state. The superstar from Thailand popularized the marital art ‘
Muay Thai
’ through his stunning performances in movies like ‘Ong Bak’, ‘
Ong Bak
2’ and ‘Sha Po Lang 2’.
Slowly but steadily, Tony Jaa built a fan base in Kerala, who also became big fans of Muay Thai, which is also known as
Thai boxing
. Like Karate, Kung Fu and
Taikondo
, Keralites are now trying their hands on Muay Thai and there are trainers offering Muay Thai lessons in different parts of the state.
On Saturday and Sunday, trained Muay Thai performers will take part in the state championship to be held at Central Stadium. Organized by the Kerala State Muay-Thai Association and supported by Johny Brothers Fight Club, the tournament will witness the participation of over 350 contestants, representing 12 districts.
“Muay Thai is gaining attention of the youth these days. Initially, it was the films of Tony Jaa, which attracted many to this martial art. Also, application has been submitted to the Kerala Olympic Association for approving Muay Thai,” said Binu Joseph, president of the Kerala State Muay-Thai Association. Joseph initiated Muay Thai training in Malappuram in 2010. Since 2006, he had trained under Prasentjith Singha, president of the Muay Boran Association of India.
States like Jharkhand, Haryana, Mizoram and Rajasthan have already recognized Muay Thai. A team led by Joseph had won second place in the 2018 national tournament held at Pune. He trains students in different schools in Malappuram.
Coaches say the demand for Muay Thai is increasing as it ensures exercise for the whole body. Known as the ‘art of eight limbs’ as it is characterized by the combined use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins, the martial art provides a balanced exercise for the body.
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