Kalaripayattu Training


Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation: Unveiling the Rich Tradition of Kalaripayattu through Comprehensive Training Programs

Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art form, has captivated enthusiasts around the world with its unique blend of physical prowess, spiritual elements, and cultural significance. Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation stands at the forefront of preserving and promoting this age-old tradition, offering comprehensive training programs tailored for students of all levels. From novices to seasoned practitioners, the foundation welcomes individuals seeking to immerse themselves in the world of Kalaripayattu through diverse residential training programs.

Introduction To Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu, believed to be one of the oldest fighting systems in existence, originated in the southern Indian state of Kerala. This martial art is not merely about physical combat; it encompasses a holistic approach to training, involving body conditioning, flexibility exercises, weaponry practice, and mental discipline. Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation takes pride in being a torchbearer for this rich cultural heritage, ensuring its transmission to future generations.

Residential Kalaripayattu Training Programs

The foundation recognizes the varying needs and time commitments of aspiring Kalaripayattu practitioners. To accommodate a wide range of students, it has curated an array of residential training programs, each designed to cater to different durations and levels of intensity.

  1. 7 Days Program: Ideal for beginners or those with limited time, the 7-day program provides a concise yet immersive introduction to Kalaripayattu. Participants delve into the foundational techniques, basic forms (known as “kata” in other martial arts), and fundamental principles of this ancient art. The emphasis is on establishing a strong base and instilling a basic understanding of the art’s philosophy.
  2. 14 Days Program: Building upon the foundations laid in the 7-day program, the 14-day program allows participants to delve deeper into the intricacies of Kalaripayattu. The extended duration enables more comprehensive training in both unarmed combat and weapons proficiency. Students develop increased flexibility, strength, and mental focus while honing their skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.
  3. 30 Days Program: For those seeking a more immersive experience, the 30-day program offers a well-rounded training curriculum. Participants undergo intensive physical conditioning, advanced techniques, and an introduction to traditional weapons. This program caters to individuals aspiring to develop a solid skill set and a deeper connection to the spiritual aspects of Kalaripayattu.
  4. 60 Days Program: The 60-day program is designed for dedicated practitioners who wish to undergo a transformative journey in Kalaripayattu. Participants engage in a progressive and challenging training regimen, exploring advanced forms, intricate weapon techniques, and mental conditioning. This extended duration allows for a more profound integration of the art into the participant’s lifestyle.
  5. 90 Days Program: The 90-day program offers an extended and comprehensive training experience for those committed to mastering Kalaripayattu. Participants not only refine their physical techniques but also delve into the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of the art. This program is ideal for individuals aiming to become proficient practitioners and ambassadors of Kalaripayattu.
  6. 90 Days Plus Program: The 90 Days Plus program caters to individuals who seek an even more profound and specialized training experience. It allows for personalized attention, advanced techniques, and the opportunity to engage in more intricate aspects of Kalaripayattu, such as healing techniques and advanced weaponry.

Instructors and Kalaripayattu Training Environment

Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation takes pride in its team of highly skilled and experienced instructors. These instructors, often hailing from traditional Kalaripayattu families, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the training programs. The training environment is carefully crafted to provide a balance between discipline and camaraderie, ensuring that students not only learn the physical aspects of Kalaripayattu but also cultivate a deep appreciation for its cultural and historical significance.

Benefits of Kalaripayattu Training

Participating in the residential training programs offered by Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation provides numerous benefits. Beyond the obvious physical fitness gains, practitioners experience improved mental focus, enhanced flexibility, and increased self-discipline. The immersive nature of the programs fosters a sense of community among participants, creating lasting connections and a shared passion for Kalaripayattu.

Cultural Immersion and Heritage Preservation

Kalaripayattu is not just a martial art; it is a living tradition that embodies the cultural heritage of Kerala. The residential training programs offered by Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation provide participants with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the region. From traditional music and dance performances to cultural excursions, students gain a holistic understanding of the context in which Kalaripayattu has flourished for centuries.

Conclusion

Kadathanadan Kalari Foundation’s commitment to preserving and promoting Kalaripayattu shines through its diverse and meticulously designed residential training programs. By offering options tailored to different durations and levels of intensity, the foundation ensures that Kalaripayattu remains accessible to enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Through these programs, participants not only learn the physical techniques but also embark on a transformative journey that connects them with the rich cultural, spiritual, and historical aspects of this ancient martial art. As a beacon of tradition and a modern hub for Kalaripayattu, the foundation stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of this extraordinary art form.

Kalaripayattu Background:

Kalaripayattu, often referred to as Kalari in short, is the oldest martial-art that predates all other forms of combat training. The true origins of Kalaripayattu are not as well documented but it is thought to date back several thousand years, most likely beginning, as the legend suggests, in Kerala. The spread of Kalaripayattu out of Kerala directly caused the creation of several Eastern martial-arts like Karate, Kung-Fu, Ju-Jitsu and many other recognisable fighting styles. These are all adaptations of Kalaripayattu – the mother of martial arts.

Kalaripayattu is a holistic martial art and is connected to nature at every point. For example, before any practice session, one starts with Bhoomi Vandanam. Bhoomi refers to mother Earth and Vandanam means salutation. This is a quick sequence of moves which serves as a perfect warm-up to the extensive training that follows it. Also, the stances in the combat sequences are inspired from various animal postures like Ashva(horse), Varaha (boar), Bilaav (Cat) etc.

Stages of Kalaripayattu Training:

Kalaripayattu training has been practiced in four stages known as Meythari, Kolthari, Ankathari and Verumkai, since ancient times. A wide group of Gurrukkals consider ‘Kalari Marma treatment’ ( treatment based on the vital points of the body) as the fifth stage. One can only become an expert practitioner and Gurukkal(teacher) in Kalaripayattu if he has completed atleast, 12 years of training under eminent Gurukkal with great dedication learning all five stages

Meythari: First Stage

Meythari, also known as Meythozhil, is the first stage in  Kalaripayattu training and includes practices with hands and legs including different kicks, jumps, blocks, turns like volte-face, kick and raise etc. These techniques are inspired from various birds and animals and can help attain immense body flexibility, mobility, the power to concentrate and dexterity.

Kolthari: Second Stage kalaripayattu Training

The second stage of Kalaripayattu is Kolthari- the practice of wooden weapons. Wooden weapons are less lethal than metal weapons and thus it lays the ground for weapons training for the students. Weapons training is at the heart of Kalaripayattu, and involves practicing against another student, and requires skill and confidence to master.

Ankathari: Third Stage Of Kakaripayattu Training

Ankathari, the third stage in Kalaripayattu training, includes attacks and counter-attacks using metal weapons. The most important among these are swords and shields, daggers, spears, flexible blades(urumi), double edged blades (churika) etc. 

Metal weapons are highly lethal and are designed to kill opponents quickly, thus skills learnt in Kolthari must become very precise through Ankathari training. In the beginning, students learn to fight with matched weapons. As they develop their skills the Gurukkal will guide them to see how they handle themselves when using mismatched combinations, such as dagger versus sword.

Verumkai: Fourth Stage

Verumkai, the fourth stage in Kalaripayattu training, is to oppose an enemy with bare hands without using any weapons. It includes all the techniques needed to win over an enemy like evade, defend, hit, strike, foot-tricks, lift and hits, lift and throws, techniques with hands that cannot be defended, techniques with focus on fingers. It also involves the ability to attack on the vital points(marma) with hands. Its order is hand and hand,stick and hand, knife and hand.

A well trained practitioner of the above mentioned 3 stages should practice this last stage with accuracy and discipline.

Kalari marma treatment is practiced only after the proper training in all the above mentioned stages of Kalaripayattu.

Kalari marma treatment is practiced only after the proper training in all the above mentioned stages of Kalaripayattu.

Benefits Of Kalaripayattu:

Physical Benefits:

Regular Kalari practice has many physical advantages including an increase in one’s flexibility, stamina and breathing capacity. It forces one’s lungs to work harder and better. Many people embrace Kalari for their weight management journey. It also enables better blood circulation in the body and helps release toxins from one’s system. A quality Kalari session will engage all body parts from foot to toe thereby activating all body cells.

Kalari also improves the digestive system and metabolism, and continuous Kalari practice will result in you becoming faster and more agile.

Mental Benefits Of Kalaripayattu Training

Kalari also enables better body-mind coordination, as a result of which you get quick reflexes. A healthy body results in a healthy mind as we know physical health directly affects mental health and vice versa. Sincere Kalaripayattu practice keeps you alert – both inside the Kalari as well as outside it. It improves your focus and concentration power. It is often termed as a form of meditation, because while practicing you cannot afford to lose focus and get distracted if you want to remain uninjured.

Skills learnt from Kalari:

Kalari practice introduces you to a number of techniques and makes you proficient in using numerous weapons. This, in turn, removes fear from your system, teaches you self-defense and makes you self-sufficient. The Kalari session ends with a sequence of exercises. Complete Kalari training including salutation, Kalari practice and then exercises makes your body fit, which results in a sense of immense pride and self-confidence. Your will-power boosts and you learn the art of patience.

If you have never attempted learning Kalaripayattu, consider giving it a sincere try and witness yourselves how it strengthens your willpower.

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