A popular and awesome martial art of
Tamil Nadu, Burning torch game is one where the performer literally plays with fire. In this art various methods of skilful display are performed. A flexible long pole is the primary requisite. Cloth soaked in oil is tightly wrapped at both ends of it and set on fire. The artist twists and turns it to create a magnificent display of light.
Sometimes, two burning torches can be held in each hand and twisted skilfully around. In another method, at the ends of a one foot long stick, a chain is attached. A ball of fire is fixed to the end of the chain. The artist twirls this during the act. A variation of this method is when a chain is attached to the chest, to the end of which a ball of fire is fixed. The ball of fire is to be rotated without touching the chain, just by the movement of the chest. There are other variations as well to this art form.
