Silambam (Tamil: சிலம்பம்), also silambattam (Tamil: சிலம்பாட்டம்), is the Tamil word for both a staff as well as a martial art that features its use.

Silambam is a form of stick or walking staff fighting. The length of the staff is roughly 1.68 meters (five and a half feet). The usual stance includes holding the staff at one end, right hand close to the back, left hand about 40 centimeters (16 inches) away. This position allows a wide array of stick-and-body movements, including complex attacks and blocks.

Stick and body movement is critical in Silambam, and beginners are taught spinning techniques and patterns, and methods to change the spins without stopping the motion of the stick. Gradually, fighters study footwork to move precisely in conjunction with the stick movements. The ultimate goal of the training is to defend multiple armed opponents.

Its emphasis on the staff distinguishes Silambam from Kalarippayattu, another South Indian martial art.

History

Silambam was patronized by the ancient Tamil Chola, Chera and Pandya kings of South India during the Sangam period.

The references to "Silappadikkaram" in Tamil Sangam literature dating back to the 2nd century refer to the sale of Silamabam staves, swords, pearls and armor to foreign traders. The ancient trading centre at the city of Madurai was renowned globally and said to be thronged by Romans, Greeks and Egyptians among others who had regular sea trade with the ancient Tamil kings. The silambam staff was one of the martial art weapons, which was in great demand with the visitors.

After the art spread to the Malay world, "Silambam" came to refer to the art as well as the weapon. Several Malay martial arts such as Silat also incorporated the silambam.

The soldiers of King Veerapandia Kattbomman (1760–1799) relied mainly on their prowess in Silambam in their warfare against the British Army.