Kalarippayat (Kalaripayattu / Kalarippayattu)

It is belived that the warrior saint Parasurama threw his battle axe in to the sea and that the sea withdraw till where the axe fell-the land of Kerala emerged. Parasurama then established 108 Kalaries and taught the art of martial training to 21 chosen disciples, who are known to be the pioneers of Kalarippayat. Even today, Lord Parasurama and his disciples are worshipped in the Kalaries. Kalarippayat has its roots in Dhanurveda, the ancient Indian science of warfare.

Turning back the pages of history……

Travelogue of 14th and 16th centuries ‘ travelers of Kerala like Duarte Barbosa give evidence that Kalarippayat as practiced today, evolved during the 9th through 12th centuries A.D. The popular ballads of Malabar (Northern Kerala) which depict the heroics of Kalarippayat maestros are definite proof of the influence this art form was having on Kerala society. Kalarippayat played a vital role in the education of the youth and the training of the warriors.

Kalarippayat... rituals and practice

The Kalari ie. The training arena has to be built in specific dimensions. The structure of Kalari (cocoon-like) is greatly suited for training in the humid climate of Kerala. The ritualistic and spiritual atmosphere plays an important role in forming a strong character and moral attitude to the disciples. To acquire discipline and concentration, series   of symbolic rituals are practiced everyday. The training is mainly divided into three parts: Maithari, Kolthari, and Ankathari.

Kalarippayat - Training at Sreerangom

Sreerangom CVN Kalari offers training to aspiring students of Kalaraippayat. Every student of Kalari is required to study and practice regularly under the Kalari Gurukkal. So unlike other courses, a certain duration can not be specified for learning Kalarippayat.
We undertake new batches of of students, in connection with Vijayadasami festival. Traditionally, Vijayadasami is considered to be an auspicious occasion to start education. Rituals of 'vidyarambham', 'ayudha pooja' etc are also performed in connection with Vijayadasami.