Our Kalaripayattu school offers a unique insight into the rich and ancient art of Kalaripayattu: a way of life, balancing mind, body and soul. Set in the cool green mountains of Wayanad, Kerala, Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam is a traditional Kalari school with a long lineage teaching this unique form of Indian martial arts.
Kalaripayattu is an ancient Indian martial art that originated in the southern state of Kerala. It is considered one of the oldest fighting systems in existence and encompasses a comprehensive training regimen that involves physical conditioning, weapon training, strikes, kicks, grappling, and healing techniques. Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam, based in the picturesque surroundings of Wayanad, Kerala, is a traditional school dedicated to preserving and teaching this ancient art form.
Here are some key aspects that highlight the uniqueness of Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam:
Location in Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad, known for its cool green mountains and lush landscapes, provides an ideal setting for practicing Kalaripayattu. The serene environment adds a spiritual and holistic dimension to the training, allowing practitioners to connect with nature while honing their martial skills.
Traditional Approach
Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam follows a traditional approach to teaching Kalaripayattu. This means adhering to the authentic methods and techniques passed down through generations. The school likely places a strong emphasis on preserving the cultural and historical aspects of Kalaripayattu.
Balancing Mind, Body, and Soul
Kalaripayattu is not just about physical combat; it is a holistic system that seeks to balance the mind, body, and soul. Training in this martial art involves mental focus, breath control, and spiritual elements that contribute to overall well-being.
Long Lineage
The mention of a “long lineage” suggests that the school has a rich history and has been passed down through generations. This lineage is crucial in maintaining the authenticity and purity of the art, ensuring that the teachings stay true to their roots.
Unique Insights
The school claims to offer unique insights into the art of Kalaripayattu. This could involve specialized training methods, additional aspects of the martial art not commonly taught, or a particular emphasis on the philosophy behind Kalaripayattu.
Way of Life
Kalaripayattu is often considered not just a physical discipline but a way of life. Practitioners often integrate its principles into their daily lives, fostering discipline, self-control, and a deep connection with their surroundings.
Overall, Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam appears to be a traditional and authentic school that provides a holistic approach to learning Kalaripayattu. It combines the physical aspects of martial arts with the mental and spiritual dimensions, creating a comprehensive and enriching experience for its practitioners.
Our PROGRAMS / SERVICES
Special Kalaripayattu training package
This Kalaripayattu training package (that comes with accommodation) is mainly focused on beginners and travellers who want to sample a taste of Kalaripayattu. It consists of:
-1 hour morning yoga practice followed immediately by 1 1/2 hour kalaripayattu training
-2 hour kalaripayattu training only in the evening
As 5 days is not enough to cover the vast amount of Kalaripayattu skills, emphasis will be placed upon special self defense techniques such as blocks, joint locks, and fighting strategy (tricks) to give the student the best chance to protect themselves with a minimum amount of training.
This is the most basic Kalaripayattu course that goes beyond a taster. This course is the same as the 5 day package with the exception of the introduction of Maypayattu training (similar to the katas or forms of Japanese karate) wooden weapons are also included. Morning begins with optional 1 hour yoga session followed directly with 1 1/2 – 2 hour (depending on student’s capacity) Kalaripayattu training and 2 hours of kalaripayattu in the evening.
At this time the muchan (short stick) and kettukari (long stick) fighting skills are introduced to the teaching schedule. These skills are learned and practiced with a training partner. Kettukari rotational techniques are also shown and are practiced without a partner.
(Excursions and day trips to the local tourist spots will be an additional charge in the 14 day program).
The daily routine follows the same pattern as the 5 day and 14 day programs. 1 and 1/2 hours Kalaripayattu in the morning (yoga classes optional) and 2 hours Kalaripayattu in the evening. No yoga in the evening portion. The 30 day program will also include advanced muchan and kettukari training which will go beyond basic techniques and introduce the Maypayattu(forms) for these weapons. .The other weapons of Kalaripayattu such as Otta, shield and sword, dagger may be taught if the student so chooses and their skill level is adequate.They are taught at the discretion of the Master and depending on the physical and mental capabilities of the students.
The first two days are traditional kalari massage for 1 hour and 15 minutes. For the next 5 days, a special technique is used directly following the traditional massage. A bundle(kizhi) filled with rice or medicinal ayurvedic leaves or powders is used to massage the patient making the total massage time 2 hours and 15 minutes. This massage is intended for chronic joint and muscle pain and chronic nervous system disorders.
The first four days are traditional kalari massage for 1 hour and 15 minutes. For the next 10 days, a special technique is used directly following the traditional massage. A bundle(kizhi) filled with rice is used to massage the patient and the next five days the ayurvedic leaf bundle is used. The total massage time 2 hours and 30 minutes. This massage is intended for chronic joint and muscle pain and chronic nervous system disorders.
This 7 day treatment requires an additional 7 day relaxation therapy period immediately following. Total treatment period is 14 days.
Including 14 days of massage, 14 days of relaxation therapy immediately following. This specialty program also includes an Ayurveda organic, yogic diet to help promote weight loss through the process of detoxification in a safe and effective manner.
This extended program will provide the same benefits as the 28 day program but will achieve higher levels of weight loss . It consists of 21 days of therapeutic Kalari Ayurveda massage followed by 21 days of relaxation therapy.
ABOUT OUR KALARIPAYATTU SCHOOL
Situated in the Wayanad jungle, the lushest part of Kerala, the ‘Garden of India’, our Kalari school has been training people in the noble art of Kalaripayattu for over twenty years. In the fantastically peaceful setting of a small organic Kerala farm, this school, run by five veteran Masters, or Gurukkals, continually strives to pass the admirable virtues of this ancient Indian art form down to the next generation of warriors. Here, our school offers Kalaripayattu training for all levels, classes focusing on self defence (and women’s self defence), yoga and meditation as well as therapeutic massage courses and recreational horse riding sessions. We also offer Kalaripayattu demonstrations and mass workshops for schools. The physical and mental benefits of partaking in Kalari training are too many to mention but to name a few, fitness and flexibility will be greatly improved, concentration levels will increase and it is also an excellent way to lose unwanted weight. READ MORE …
Kalaripayattu literally means ‘training for battle’: ‘Kalari’ (Battlefield) and ‘Payattu’ (Training in the art of combat). Traditionally practiced by the Nair warrior caste of Kerala, it is a fierce and powerful martial art, and has its roots firmly in Indian spirituality and myth. Mythology credits Saint Parasurama as being the father of Kalaripayattu having learned it form God Shiva himself. In ancient South India the Kalari (yard for practicing Kalaripayattu) was a place of learning for subjects such as medicine, philosophy, astrology, architecture, and geometry, in addition to combat art and yoga.
“Kalaripayattu is a modern system of education. By mastering the energy you attain self-control and overcome life’s difficulties. The student of Kalaripayattu is inculcated with moral responsibility. In this ancient martial art, effectiveness and physical strength are supported by respect, attention, and non-violence so that order is maintained in oneself and in society.“
KALARIPAYATTU
Explore the many stages of kalaripayattu training and the techniques that they require. From fighting with wooden sticks all the way through to training for battle with sword and shield and concocting home made healing potions this training regime will show you everything.
HISTORY OF KALARIPAYATTU
Kalari has a rich and ancient history, (and has experienced a strong revival following destruction by the British Raj). Deriving from the Sanskrit word for battlefield, this ferocious martial art was once a compulsory activity for all inhabitants of Kerala to keep them battle ready.
Kalari Massage
An essential aspect of Kalaripayattu, the massage is used in training to keep the body limber and to heal injury. Despite originating form the same place as the Ayurveda massage, there are crucial differences between Kalari and Ayurveda.
Kalaripayattu Weapons
A wide range of weapons are used in training – from the muchan (short wooden stick), through the kettukari (long wooden stick) all the way to the highly advanced sword, urumi and other metal weapons. The training is intended to make all of these an extension of the body.
Spirituality
As well as intense physical training, Kalaripayattu also offers a training regime for the mind and soul. This aims to give the student a reverence for life and a start on the journey to untangle the mystery of human existence. This aspect of training helps to strengthen the bond between Master and student.
Meditation
A key part of the spiritual training, Chakra meditation helps Kalaripayattu fighters to maintain mental balance and stamina. By aligning the Chakras one may achieve inner peace and limitless focus – attributes which are very useful both on and off the training floor.
Women’s self-defence
It is a regrettable fact that women may need to know how to defend themselves against potential male attackers. Women taking part in training will be empowered by being taught special self defense techniques specifically for fending off larger, stronger attackers.
Marma
Marma are vital pressure points used for both attack and massage. From the Sanskrit for ‘hidden or secret’, these points of overlapping tissue cause extreme effects if attacked correctly ranging from intense pain to instant death.
KALARIPAYATTU BASED ARTS
Throughout Kerala and South India a variety of arts have evolved alongside Kalaripayattu. There are several dances, dramatic performances and festivals that exist today that have clearly been heavily influenced by Kalaripayattu.
KALARIPAYATTU TRAINING
Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam offers one of the best courses of Kalaripayattu classes in Kerala. Our Kalaripayattu school offers a variety of programs to chose from that range from a five day course all the way to several months.
Yoga for Beginners
Kalaripayattu and yoga is a fantastic combination. The yoga helps to maintain the body flexibility and strength required for Kalaripayattu as well as conditioning the mind for meditation. The schedule involves morning yoga with Kalari training and an evening Kalari session. The yoga classes are aimed at beginners.
Yogic Diet
The Yogic diet is more a way of life than a diet. Focusing on the consumption of fresh, homegrown foods and the absorption of cosmic energy (prana), this holistic approach to eating also incorporates meditation in its methods so the mind may be as healthy as the body. It is as useful to Kalaripayattu as it is to yoga.
Contact: +91 8547308180
kadathanadankalari2017@gmail.com
Media Coverage: Our Kalaripayattu School
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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
My great experience training Kalari
“I’ve had a wonderful time with at the Kalaripayattu training school. I stayed over for only for a few days and managed to make quick progress under the patient guidance of Thomas Gurukkal, who is a dedicated and fun teacher. The classes are mesmerising to watch and it’s incredible to be able to participate. I hope to be back soon to complete at least one month. Thank you so much Thomas gurukkal, & to all Kalari students!
Solene France
In “Kalari Training” Indian martial arts, emphasis is placed on making the body more stable and flexible as a foundation for more difficult practices .
Thomas Gurukkal and his family are incredible hosts. The name of the school is Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam ( Indian martial arts school ) and its located in Wayanad, Kerala. They are warm and welcoming and I have never felt astray in their presence. The food here is amazing and extremely nutritious. Everything was taken care for me, from my stay to my food. The room and the bathrooms are clean since they are cleaned every week. Thomas even took us on an excursion to a temple in the forest as well as a wildlife safari.
Elton Ray Coelho | Dubai
I recommend this Indian martial arts training school 100% i am very pleased
My experience in Thoma’s School has been truly amazing. In the state of Kerala South-west India, there is a region called Wayanad in the north of Kerala. Thomas picked me up from Calicut airport which is about 120km from his house in wayanad. to get there we had to drive up huge mountains of beautiful lush jungle. Thomas and his family were very friendly and welcoming. Kalari is the mother of all martial arts.. it is truly amazing. I have learned many new skills and my fitness, strength,stamina, balance, body and mind focus and coordination have all improved significantly.
John Fuster | Spain
I can’t thank you enough for having me to stay with you and your lovely family for such a long period of time – first as a helper on the farm and then as a student of Kalaripayattu. Your way of life is a beautiful thing to behold and I learnt a huge amount from experiencing it, if only for a few months. Your family made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived and I loved getting to know each and every one of you. Pranav and Sachu were a constant source of entertainment, always cheerful and enthusiastic even when they fight with each other. Raji’s and Amma’s cooking has ruined English food for me!
Milo Smith, United Kingdom
Kalari Training, Nature, Guru, a second home – I found them all here!
I came to Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam with the intent of training the ancient martial arts form which has its genesis in this very land. I am leaving the sangam as a member of the beautiful Kalari family that Thomas Sir has cherished and nurtured over the years.\
Suberna Gupta
Kalaripayattu is the origin of martial art before coming to this place (Kadathanadan Kalari sangam) I have no idea that why I am going to learn this art form. But now I can say that it has transformed me in many ways. I have gained strength, stamina, as well as mental power, and all thanks, go to Thomas Gurukkal. I had never done any physical activity so for me, it was a bit difficult to adapt to the changes but under the guidance of Thomas Gurukkal, slowly it becomes favorable. During my one-month stay I never felt like I am away from my home, I enjoyed Pranav’s and Sachu’s company, loved amma’s and Raji mam care. The place is beautiful, the food is amazing, learned fishing also. Everything will bring me back here soon.
Aakrithi Sahay
FAQs
It helps improve physical fitness, concentration, self-confidence, and discipline.
Children can begin with basic exercises. People of any age can learn Kalaripayattu.
Absolutely. It is excellent for self-defense and boosting confidence.
It is an ancient healing method that uses traditional oils and stimulates Marma points to provide relief to muscles and joints.
You can find admission details by sending a message through the contact form on our website or by contacting our center directly.
Yes, we provide Kalari Ayurvedic massage packages for muscle strength and pain relief.
Yes, we recommend a healthy diet for optimal physical fitness and energy.
Weapon training begins after completing basic exercises and physical training, with the permission of the Gurukkal.
It helps improve flexibility, muscle strength, and breath control.
Yes, we conduct research on the history of Kalaripayattu, ancient manuscripts, and biomechanical training methods. We also conduct research on Indian traditional martial arts.
Certainly, we organize Kalaripayattu demonstrations at various venues and schools.
This is a continuous learning process. Generally, it takes at least 12 years to fully master it. However, in the current era, Gurukkals provide training based on the aptitude and abilities of the students.
Yes, we provide certificates based on the student’s proficiency upon completion of training.
Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial arts in India. It is a unique combination of spirituality, healing, and physical exercise.
Generally, children who have completed 7 years of age are allowed for Kalari training. There is no fixed upper age limit; anyone can practice Kalaripayattu according to their individual physical health.