Kathi Samu is one of the ancient martial arts of
Andhra Pradesh, practiced by the royal armies. This prestigious martial art employs various kinds of swords. The place where Kathi Samu is performed is known as 'garidi.'
Today, this form of martial art prevails only as a pastime in the families of those who were once in the service of their Rajahs as soldiers. It was patronized in later years in the two principalities Vizianagaram in northernmost coastal Andhra, and Karvetinagaram in the southernmost
Chittoor district. Stick fight known as 'vairi' has an important role in Kothi Samu and it is the prelude to the actual swordfight. The fighting takes place between two persons brandishing long and curved swords. 'Gareja' in which a participant holds four swords, two in each hand and 'Dal Farri Khadga' are other important aspects of the sword skills.
