Descendants of the paika practice at their local akhara every day after work. Demonstrations are arranged every year for the Dasahara festival and other occasions. The grounds are first prepared with soft earth sprinkled with oil and water. The performers stand in two rows with wooden swords and shields. They approach each other slowly before the tempo of the music increases, at which point they engage in mock combat. Today, It's one of the best Indian martial arts in the world.
