In Varmakalai tradition the human body is mapped with 108 main varmam — vital points where nerves, blood vessels and soft tissue meet. They are central to both the martial art and the healing practice.
The points are grouped as padu (12 primary points, traditionally regarded as serious) and thodu (96 secondary points). Each point has a Tamil name, an anatomical location and a traditional function. The interactive explorer below visualises them on an anatomical model.
Click on the body to discover Varmakalai junctions
Health disclaimer: information on this page describes traditional Varma practice and beliefs. It is educational content, not medical advice, and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Results vary from person to person.
In Varmakalai tradition the body is mapped with 108 main varmam — vital points where nerves, blood vessels and soft tissue meet. They are grouped as padu (12 primary, considered serious) and thodu (96 secondary) points.
Varmam points are central to both Varmakalai (the martial art, where applied with restraint) and varma therapy (the healing practice, where they are addressed to relieve pain and imbalance).
Traditionally, padu points are regarded as dangerous when mishandled. Learning avoids direct pressure on untrained bodies, and therapeutic use is limited to qualified practitioners.