KERALA — Kalari Kendram, a residential branch of the Delhi-based Kalari Kendram (established 2006), is reviving interest in Kalaripayattu, widely regarded as one of the oldest martial arts in the world, by offering training in the very region where the discipline originated.

Located in Narinada, Kerala, away from the noise of city life, the gurukul follows the traditional guru-shishya model rather than a conventional classroom format. Students train under experienced gurukkal, including founder Shinto Mathew and co-founder K.K. Vijayan, who guide each practitioner individually through the four stages of the art: Meithari (body conditioning), Kolthari (wooden weapon training), Ankathari (metal weapon training), and Verumkai (bare-hand self-defense).

The ashram sits on a mountaintop surrounded by the Kakkaya Dam reservoir and the Chembra hills, with air quality levels that the school says average around 58 to 60 AQI, well below the levels typical of urban centers. Meals served to students are largely organic and homegrown, often cultivated by previous residential students themselves.

Kalari Kendram offers multiple entry points for prospective students, including a 7-day nature retreat, a full residential training program, a teacher training course for those looking to carry the tradition forward, and drop-in classes for those based locally. No prior martial arts experience or fitness background is required, and the school says it welcomes beginners, wellness seekers, international travelers, and dedicated practitioners alike.

Recent participants have described the experience as transformative, citing the combination of disciplined daily training, the natural surroundings, and close mentorship from the gurukkal as central to their stay.

Those interested in joining can register through the official website or reach the team directly by phone for details on programs, fees, and course duration.

Media Contact:

Kalari Kendram kerala
Narinada, kozhikode, Kerala 673526
Phone: +91 7011494948 / +91 9711804975
Website: https://kalarippayattu.com/