Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation: An Introduction
The Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation traces its roots back to the establishment of Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam in 1949 in Vadakara, Kerala, India. For over 50 years, the foundation has been dedicated to the noble art of Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art form. With a commitment to preserving and passing on the admirable virtues of Kalaripayattu, the foundation imparts training to individuals of all levels.
The curriculum offered by the school is diverse, covering aspects such as women’s self-defense, yoga, meditation, therapeutic Kalari massage, and traditional Kalari marma treatments. In addition to martial arts training, the foundation maintains an Ayurvedic medicinal plants garden, cultivating rare herbs for holistic well-being. This holistic approach aligns with the rich traditions of Indian culture, combining physical training with the healing properties of Ayurveda.
Led by directors K K Sajeev Kumar Gurukkal, K F Thomas Gurukkal, and T N Nishad Gurukkal, the foundation is not only focused on individual training but also extends its reach through Kalaripayattu demonstrations and mass workshops for schools. This outreach initiative helps in spreading awareness about the ancient art form and its benefits among the younger generation.
One notable aspect of the foundation’s vision is its openness to collaboration with various Indian traditional arts. By actively engaging in research on Indian traditional martial arts, yoga, and Ayurvedic medicinal plants, the Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation plays a role in preserving and promoting these cultural treasures. Through its multifaceted approach, the foundation contributes not only to the physical well-being of its practitioners but also to the broader cultural heritage of India, ensuring that these traditional practices continue to thrive and inspire future generations.
Our Directors
K K Sajeev Kumar
DIN 10477935
K F Thomas
DIN 10084937
T N Nishad
DIN 10084938
OUR UNIQUENESS
Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Global Seekers
Welcome to a sanctuary unlike any other—a convergence point for practitioners, healers, and seekers from across the globe. Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation stands as an internationally recognized center where over forty countries and every Indian state are represented. Here, timeless traditions—Kalaripayattu, yoga, meditation, Kalari marma therapy, and authentic Kalari massage—unite under one transformative vision. Our distinctive personalized learning packages, tailored to individual potential and constitution, ensure that every seeker discovers their unique pathway to wellness, mastery, and spiritual awakening.
Global Attraction For Holistic Practices
- 🥋 Kalaripayattu: The Ancient Warrior’s Path
- More than a martial art—Kalaripayattu is a complete system of human development. Practitioners from every continent arrive to master this 2,000-year-old discipline that sculpts both body and spirit. Through synchronized movements, combat techniques, self-defense mastery, and mental fortitude training, students discover physical power allied with profound inner discipline. The results are transformative: enhanced strength, razor-sharp focus, unshakeable confidence, and a deep philosophical understanding of combat, courage, and character.
- Why global warriors choose us: Authentic lineage transmission, expert master instructors, results-proven methodology, and a community of international practitioners united in excellence.
- 🧘 Yoga & Meditation: The Path to Wholeness
- Yoga and meditation have captivated seekers worldwide for their remarkable ability to harmonize body, mind, and spirit. At our center, these classical practices transcend mere physical exercise—they become gateways to profound peace, clarity, and spiritual transformation. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, physical healing, mental clarity, or spiritual awakening, our experienced yoga masters guide you toward authentic inner stillness and radiant wellness.
- The global appeal is undeniable: Measurable stress reduction, enhanced flexibility and vitality, improved mental health, deeper sleep, and the cultivation of lasting inner peace that transforms how you experience life itself.
International Recognition For Kalari Treatment
- A Global Testament to Traditional Excellence
- The presence of healing seekers from forty nations speaks volumes—Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation has become the world’s destination for authentic Kalari therapy. What draws them across continents?
- 🌟 Kalari Marma Therapy: Precision Healing Through Ancient Anatomical Science
- This isn’t conventional massage—it’s sophisticated therapeutic intervention based on millennia-old knowledge of vital energy points (marmas) throughout the human body. Our certified Kalari marma practitioners achieve remarkable results treating chronic pain, sports injuries, neurological conditions, and conditions modern medicine often declares untreatable.
- International patients report:
- Chronic pain resolution that lasted years
- Surprising recovery from injuries experts deemed permanent
- Relief from conditions no medication could touch
- Energy restoration and vitality transformation
- Healing of emotional trauma stored in the body
- 💆 Kalari Massage: The Ancient Art of Therapeutic Touch
- Rooted in Kalaripayattu tradition itself, our specialized massage therapy utilizes medicated oils, precise anatomical knowledge, and time-tested techniques that penetrate far deeper than surface relaxation. Each treatment activates your body’s own healing intelligence, releasing tension, restoring circulation, and revitalizing your entire being.
- Benefits clients travel continents to experience:
- Deep muscular release and pain elimination
- Accelerated injury recovery
- Detoxification and renewed vitality
- Rejuvenated skin and youthful appearance
- Nervous system reset and stress dissolution
- Prevention of future injuries and disease
- The Word Spreads: One healed client tells another. One transformed life inspires a friend. This organic, international recognition cannot be manufactured—it reflects genuine results, authentic expertise, and the timeless power of traditional healing methods.
National Hub For Kalari Studies:
- From Every Corner of India, They Come
- Dedicated disciples arrive from Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, and beyond. This pan-Indian presence transforms our center into something profound: a living repository of ancient martial wisdom, protected and transmitted through the sacred guru-shishya (teacher-student) lineage.
- Why Serious Students Choose Our Center:
- ✨ Authentic Transmission: We preserve Kalaripayattu exactly as it has been practiced for centuries—no commercialization, no dilution, no modification for modern comfort. What you receive is the genuine article, transmitted through an unbroken lineage of masters.
- ✨ Master-Level Instruction: Our teachers don’t merely teach techniques—they embody the living tradition. With decades of personal practice and recognized credentials within traditional lineages, they guide students toward genuine mastery, not superficial competence.
- ✨ Rigorous Progressive Training: Students advance through clearly defined levels, each building upon foundational mastery. This systematic progression develops not just skill, but wisdom, discipline, and the character befitting a true Kalari practitioner.
- ✨ Community of Commitment: Surrounded by fellow disciples equally dedicated to mastery, students find themselves elevated by collective intention, mutual respect, and shared pursuit of excellence. The community itself becomes a powerful teaching force.
- ✨ Integrated Wellness Approach: Unlike isolated martial arts schools, our students benefit from yoga, meditation, marma therapy, and massage integrated with their training—creating conditions for optimal learning, injury prevention, and holistic development.
- ✨ Recognition and Advancement: Serious students can progress toward becoming qualified instructors themselves, continuing the unbroken lineage and contributing to Kalaripayattu’s survival and flourishing.
Tailored Learning Packages:
The mention of unique learning packages based on individual potentialities suggests a customized approach to teaching. This could involve assessing the skills, fitness levels, and goals of each learner, and then designing a curriculum that caters to their specific needs. This personalized approach enhances the effectiveness of the training and ensures that each participant gets the most out of their learning experience.
In summary, the described location appears to be a global center for holistic practices, particularly focusing on Kalari, Yoga, and Meditation. It attracts a diverse audience, offering traditional treatments and serving as a hub for Kalari studies with a personalized and tailored approach to learning.
One of the oldest training centers in Kerala- The Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam was first founded by the 4 Gurukkals – Sri V. Sreenivasan Gurukkal, Raghavan Gurukkal, Dhamu Gurukkal, and Valappil Karunan Gurukkal. Sreenivasan Gurukkal brought the Kalari sangam to Wayanad where it has stayed since 1962.
Padmashri Meenakshi Amma: Guardian of Ancient Wisdom.
Padmashri Meenakshi Amma, who is over 80 years old, is a living legend in the Kalaripayattu community. She received India’s coveted Padma Shri award in 2017 and represents the uninterrupted lineage of Kerala’s historic martial history.
Her incredible journey began at the age of seven, when she first entered the hallowed sanctuary of the kalari with the guidance of V.P. Raghavan Gurukkal, whom she would eventually marry. Following her husband’s death in 2007, Meenakshi Amma took over leadership of the Kadathanattu Kalari Sangham, channelling personal loss into newfound commitment to her craft.
As Patron of the Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation, Meenakshi Amma contributes not only technical expertise but also decades of experience conserving this cultural treasure. Her presence gives our foundation the authenticity and depth that only a lifetime of work can provide.
Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded beyond its roots in Vadakara, establishing centres throughout Kerala, particularly in the beautiful highlands of Wayanad. Our comprehensive training includes traditional combat techniques, women’s self-defence, yoga, meditation, and the healing arts of Kalari massage and marma therapy.
K K Sajeev Kumar Gurukkal
Sajeev Kumar Gurukkal is a highly experienced master in the ancient Indian martial art form of Kalaripayattu, boasting over 55 years of expertise. Born into a family deeply rooted in the tradition, he inherited his martial arts legacy from his father, the late Ragaven Gurukkal. Ragaven Gurukkal was a respected figure in the world of Kalaripayattu, passing on his knowledge and skills to his son, Sjeev Kumar.
The Gurukkal family’s dedication to Kalaripayattu doesn’t end with Sjeev Kumar; his mother, Padmasree Meenakshi Gurukkal, is also actively involved in teaching this traditional martial art. Her inclusion in the lineage highlights the family’s commitment to preserving and passing on the rich cultural heritage of Kalaripayattu through generations.
Under Sjeev Kumar Gurukkal’s guidance, students not only learn the physical aspects of Kalaripayattu but also delve into its cultural and philosophical dimensions. With a deep-rooted connection to this ancient art form, Sjeev Kumar Gurukkal and his family play a vital role in ensuring the continued practice, understanding, and promotion of Kalaripayattu, contributing to its legacy and significance in the realm of martial arts.
K F Thomas Gurukkal
K. F. Thomas Gurukkal stands as the current Chief Master Trainer and proprietor of Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam, a renowned institution rooted in the traditional Indian martial art form of Kalaripayattu. His journey in Kalaripayattu commenced under the guidance of M. A. Vijayan Gurukkal, the esteemed founder of the Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam. Seeking to deepen his expertise, Thomas Gurukkal undertook training with esteemed masters such as Sri V. Sreenivasan Gurukkal, Shri V. P. Rakhavan Gurukkal Vadakara, Shri Manoj Gurukkal Vadakara, and Shri Sajeevan Gurukkal. His dedication led him to Kanyakumari and Tamil Nadu, where he further honed his skills under the tutelage of the renowned Shri Mani Gurukkal.
In addition to his proficiency in Kalaripayattu, Thomas Gurukkal has delved into the spiritual realm through the practice of Kriya Yoga, learning from his teacher, Shri Soryanda Baba of the Himalayas. A devoted disciple, he spent five years under Guru Soryanda’s guidance and continues to embrace this spiritual practice. Thomas Gurukkal’s holistic approach extends to his expertise in Kalari marma massage therapy, where he not only performs the therapy skillfully but also personally gathers and prepares Ayurvedic medicinal herbs to create the therapeutic oils. In recognition of his contributions and mastery, he was honored with the Malayali Mudra Award in 2022, acknowledging his significant role in preserving and propagating the rich cultural heritage of Kalaripayattu.
Other Masters at the school
T. N. Nishad Gurukkal, M. S. Ganeesh Gurukkal are the present Kalari masters of Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam who share this responsibility along with K.F. Thomas Gurukkal. They have been thoroughly trained over many years, some since childhood, by the Master K. F. Thomas Gurukkal himself.
OUR CENTRES
Kadathanad Kalari Sangam, Thacholi Meppayil,Vadakara
Kadathanad Kalari Sangam, established in 1949 in Vadakara, Kerala, holds a rich legacy in the traditional Indian martial art form of Kalaripayattu. The founder, V P Ragavan Gurukkal, laid the foundation of this esteemed Kalari center, imparting the ancient knowledge of Kalaripayattu to enthusiasts. Over the years, the institution has flourished under the guidance of dedicated practitioners.
Padmasree Meenakshi Gurukkal, along with her son Sajeev Kumar Gurukkal and Shajil Gurukkal, currently spearheads the teaching at Kadathanad Kalari Sangam. Meenakshi Gurukkal, honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the center, ensuring the preservation and propagation of Kalaripayattu’s traditional techniques.
Sajeev Kumar Gurukkal and Shajil Gurukkal, inheriting the legacy from their predecessors, contribute significantly to the continuity of Kadathanad Kalari Sangam’s teachings. The institution serves as a hub for learning and practicing Kalaripayattu, promoting physical fitness, mental discipline, and cultural heritage. Through their collective efforts, the Gurukkals at Kadathanad Kalari Sangam play a vital role in keeping this ancient martial art alive and vibrant in the modern era.
Contact: K K Sajeev Gurukkal +91 8943905899
Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam, Kammana,Mananthavady, Wayanad
The Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation’s head office, operational since January 2, 2000, stands as a testament to the rich tradition of Kalari, an ancient martial art form. Nestled close to the renowned Valliyoorkavu Temple, the center serves as a hub for Kalari Training, drawing enthusiasts and practitioners from diverse backgrounds.
Currently, the center boasts an impressive enrollment of over 150 students, attesting to its popularity and success in imparting traditional martial arts skills. The foundation’s commitment to preserving and promoting the art form is exemplified by the expertise of its chief Master Trainers.
K F Thomas Gurukkal, C. K. Sreejith Gurukkal, and T. N. Nishad lead the center with their wealth of knowledge and experience in Kalari. These chief Master Trainers bring a profound understanding of the art’s nuances, ensuring that students receive authentic and comprehensive training. Their dedication not only contributes to the physical and mental development of the students but also plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage embedded in Kalari.
Under the guidance of these esteemed trainers, the Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation continues to flourish, fostering a community of dedicated practitioners and upholding the legacy of this ancient martial art form.
Contact: K F THomas Gurukkal 8547308180
Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam, Manjappara, Ambalavayal
The Kalari Training Centre at Manjappara, Ambalavayal, Wayanad, Kerala, has been operational since 2021, providing a platform for the traditional martial art form of Kalaripayattu. Situated in proximity to the ancient Edakkal Caves, the center has attracted over 70 students who engage in the rigorous training of Kalaripayattu.
The chief Master Trainers at the center play a pivotal role in imparting knowledge and expertise in this ancient martial art. K F Thomas Gurukkal, C. K. Sreejith Gurukkal, T. N. Nishad Gurukkal, M. S. Ganeesh Gurukkal, and E. A. Anoop Gurukkal are highly skilled and experienced individuals dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Kalaripayattu. Their collective mastery encompasses various aspects of this traditional art, including weapon techniques, physical conditioning, and mental discipline.
Udaya Kalari Sangam, Chombala,Avikkara
Udaya Kalari Sangam, nestled near Avikkara Beach near Chombala, has been a beacon of Kalaripayattu excellence for the past 25 years. Under the guidance of esteemed masters, Devaraj Gurukkal and Manoj Gurukkal, the institution has flourished into a renowned center for this ancient Indian martial art form.
Devaraj Gurukkal and Manoj Gurukkal, both seasoned and highly experienced in Kalaripayattu, have dedicated their lives to preserving and imparting the rich traditions of this martial art. With their deep knowledge and expertise, they have played pivotal roles in shaping the curriculum and methodology at Udaya Kalari Sangam.
The institution has not only served as a place for physical training but has also become a cultural hub, fostering a sense of community and preserving the historical significance of Kalaripayattu. Students at Udaya Kalari Sangam not only learn the physical techniques of this martial art but also delve into its spiritual and philosophical aspects.
Over the years, the masters at Udaya Kalari Sangam have contributed significantly to the propagation and continuation of Kalaripayattu, ensuring that this ancient art form remains vibrant and relevant in the contemporary world. The legacy of Udaya Kalari Sangam stands as a testament to the enduring power and significance of Kalaripayattu in preserving cultural heritage.
Kadathanad Kalari Sangam, Onchiyam, Malolkkunnumel
Kadathanad Kalari, located in Onchiyam, Malolkkunnumel, has been a hub for Kalaripayattu training over the past four years. The dedicated instructors at this renowned Kalari center are O V Siddharathan Gurukkal and Archa. Under their guidance, students delve into the ancient and dynamic art of Kalaripayattu, honing both physical and mental prowess.
O V Siddharathan Gurukkal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the training sessions, ensuring that students receive authentic and traditional teachings of Kalaripayattu. His deep understanding of the art form, combined with a passion for preserving its heritage, contributes significantly to the immersive learning experience at Kadathanad Kalari.
Archa, the other esteemed teacher, complements the training with her own unique approach, fostering a well-rounded and enriching environment for students. Together, they create a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, instilling discipline, focus, and a profound appreciation for the cultural significance of Kalaripayattu.
The Kalari has become a nurturing ground for individuals seeking not only physical fitness but also a connection to India’s rich martial arts heritage. Students at Kadathanad Kalari embark on a transformative journey, where the teachings of O V Siddharathan Gurukkal and Archa inspire them to embrace the essence of Kalaripayattu as a holistic and ancient form of self-discipline.
