Development of gymnastics in ancient India

Abstract

The purpose of study is to trace out the development of Gymnastics in ancient India. The data / information were derived from primary and secondary sources. The information was analysed qualitatively which was facilitated with internal and external criticism. Gymnastics is very oldest sports whose foundation was found in ancient Greece. After that it was spread all over the world. The investigator tried to trace out the existence of Gymnastics in ancient India. People of ancient India practised some form of exercises to fit them physically and mentally. Out of these, some exercises were similar to the gymnastics exercises. They practiced yoga asana, acrobatic movements for health, physical & mental fitness and recreation. Acrobatic movements were performed by a group of people called Banjaras. They performed gymnastics activities and acrobatic feats to earn their livelihood. Gymnastics skills and acrobatic moves were not only the practised by the Natas but these skills were also mastered by the princes and youth of higher Varnas. In 17th century, a gymnasium was built in Maharashtra for practicing gymnastics exercises. On that time popular apparatus were mallkhamb, heavy club swinging, lazium, stone-dises. Modern Gymnastics apparatus like Horizontal Bar, Parallel Bars, Vaulting Horse, Balance Beam, Roman Rings were introduced in 18th century in European countries, which were unknown by the Indian till Britisher came to India.