Paika Akhada

Paika akhada is an Odia term which roughly translates as "warrior gymnasium" or "warrior school". The martial arts performed by the people of Khandayat caste and Gopal caste (Cowherds) in Odisha, eastern India. In former times they served as the Paikas under the kings. Today's paika akhada are used for practicing the traditional physical exercises in addition to the paika dance, a performance art with rhythmic movements and weapons being hit in time to the drum. It incorporates acrobatic manoeuvres and use of the khanda, patta (guantlet-sword), sticks, and other weapons.