The art of Varma Kalai have been in existence on the Indian sub-continent for thousands of years practiced by ancient Tamils of Tamil Nadu, Tamil Eelam (Northeast Sri Lanka), Kerala, and the Southern portion of present day Andhra Pradesh. Varma Kalai is one of the deadliest form of martial art in history. The tamil word “Varma" means "vital points" and "Kalai” means "art", hence it is translated as the “the art of vital points”. Varma Kalai is also known by following names: Varma Kalai, Varmak Kalai, Varma adi, Marma Adi, Varma Sastra, Varma Vidya, Marma Vidya, Marma kalai, Varma Kalari, Kalari Varma etc.
Varma Kalai teachers are highly selective in their choice of students. The Varma Kalai martial artist is not allowed to teach the art to others until he receives Deeksha from his Aasan or Periyaasan as in recognition of him as an Aasan. It was taught only to selected individuals who qualified but again all who learned does not qualify to become an Aasan. Also the Aasans and Periyaasans did not pass on many techniques as they never met qualified disciples. It is being said that causes such led to the loss of many great techniques.
Currently Varma Kalai is practised in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, usually as part of Kuttu varisai and Kalari training.
Varma Kalai is deadliest if its not performed with the qualified disciples.