KALARIPPAYAT

AN ANCIENT TRADITION
OF
MARTIAL TRAINING
AND
PHYSICAL CULTURE

E.N.S KALARI
NETTOOR
ESTD: 1954
NARAYANAN EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL
www.enskalari.org.in
enskalari@vsnl.net
narayanan.ens@gmail.com
ens_kalari@yahoo.co.in

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 KALARIPPAYAT, THE TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ART

‘Oh Great Godess, Who protects the Kalari tradition, Long Life’

Kalarippayat is one of the oldest living traditions of Martial training, Physical culture
and self defence method in the World. The Kalarippayat is derived from two words
in Malayalam, Kalari and Payatt. Kalari means the place, where any particular art
form is taught. Payatt literally means practice or exercise. In the present context it
means in the traditional style of combat. It is the Martial Art form of Kerala, the
Southern most state of INDIA.

KERALA, THE MOTHER LAND OF KALARIPPAYAT

Kerala is the beautiful piece of land in the

Southern end of India, facing the Arabian
Sea on the western side. Throughout
history, it was famous for its spices.
Culturally and socially it stands apart from
all other India State. It is one of the thickly
populated states in India. According to the
1991 census the population was
29,632,828. The density was also very high

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747 per sq. km. While the land area is only 1.03% of the whole country. The total
land area of the Kerala is only 38863 sq. kms.

Kalarippayat is the only form of the most ancient traditional systems of physical
culture, self-defense and Martial techniques still in existence. The epic hero, LORD
PARASURAMA [the incarnation of LORD VISHNU] retrieved Kerala from the sea.

The Origin of Kalarippayat:

The ancient scholars have divided the various art forms into 64
different categories. The art of fighting with weapons is
considered to be one among those 64 art forms. Our ancient
culture contains very valuable treasures of knowledge dealt
with in VEDAS and UPANISHAD. The Dhanurveda, a branch of
Yajurveda, described various techniques of Martial art, which is
considered to be an integrated science for defense and attack.
The basic science of Kalarippayat is based on Dhanurveda. Hence historians say that
the Kalarippayat must have originated even before 2000B.C.

The elder generations still believe that the Kalari Guru is the sage
Parasurama himself, who after creating the land of Kerala, taught
Kalarippayatt to 21 disciples in order to protect and maintain
peace. Lord SIVA is considered to be the father of Kalarippayatt.
Parasurama has propagated in Northern style and Sage Agasthya in
Southern style.

Parasurama [he was a Brahmin] commanded the ocean [the

Arabian Sea] to move back by hurling a battle-axe and brought into being the land of
Kerala. On the east of that land lie the mountain ranges, the Western Ghats, and on
the west is the Arabian Sea. Hence the land was termed MALAYALAM, Mala
meaning mountain and Alam referring to AZHAM or depth, meaning the deep sea.

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 The creation of a new land necessitated peopling it. So
Parasurama brought in BRAHMINS who were aristocrats
in the old days and entrusted the administration and
security to them. They are the responsibility of the
ruling class everywhere. The king came from the clan
known as KSHATHRIYAS in this country.
Parasurama had a life-long enmity with the Kshathriyas
and hence entrusted the sovereignty of the new land to
the Brahmins, who were priests by heredity. It is believed that he hand-picked four
of the most aristocratic Brahmins, and the four Brahmins families named:
ONAMBILLY, VATTETHIRUP, PILLATHANGHI, and ARAPUKAI. They became the four
styles and they trained others in the use of various weapons and picked 21experts
from among those trained as warriors and established 21 Kalaris in order to
popularize KALARIPPAYATT. These 21 Gurus propagated the art of Kalarippayatt far
and wide in Kerala and established 108 Kalaris at different centres.

HISTORY OF KALARIPPAYAT

The institution of Kalari is generally traced to the period

immediately after the disintegration of the Perumals of
Kodungallur in the first quarter of 12th century AD.

It was an integral part of the socio-political system of

medieval Kerala. Politically the land of Kerala was
divided into a number of principalities and minor chief-
taincies. The alignment and enmities of these power
centres resulted in constant warfare. Small scale skirmishes and large scale fighting
were-not uncommon among these local and regional authorities. In such a setup
each power centre was forced to maintain a body of fighters at its beck and call.
Systematic training and strict rules of discipline for fighters were indispensable for
an effective working of the system. It was in such circumstances that the Kalaris

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where provided the institutional base for the body building and training in combat
became not only necessary but also essential.

Medieval principalities and chieftain familes maintained a military group of their

own. This practice of maintaining trained local militia can be traced back to the
period of NADU formation in Kerala during the Perumal rule. Nadu chieftains had
hundreds of organizations – MUNNURUVAR the 300, ANJUTTUVAR the 500,
ARUNUTTUVAR the 600 and ELUNUTTUVAR the 700. These bands of soldiers must
have developed into landed aristocracy supporting the established order with
military power.

Here it is specially noted that the Kalarippayat training was undergone by every
youth of the NAIR CASTE, the Kerala warrior caste that is like the SAMURAI of Japan.
But Kalarippayat was not the sole prerogative of Nairs for there were many
MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS, EZHAVAS and even Brahmins [a sub-caste of Hindu religion]
who practiced and mastered the techniques of Kalarippayat.

KALARI

In Sanskrit, the word KHALOORIKA denotes a place where weapon training is

practiced. It is believed that it was from the Sanskrit term Khaloorika, that the word
KALARI came into use in Malayalam for similar institution imparting training in
Martial Arts. The term KALARI denotes a gymnasium [where] for proper training or
exercise, but in the present context it means training in the traditional style of
combat.

This was the first educational centre in Kerala. Till the middle of this century, KALARI
was the place for all sorts of education. It was the next important establishment in
any Place in Kerala, next to the temple. The master of Kalari, better known as ASAN
or GURUKKAL was one of most respected man of the society. Apart from physical
training, he taught them LANGUAGES, SCIENCE and ART. He was the local doctor,
especially for the treatments for nerves and bones. Kalari has a separate system of

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MEDICINE&TREATMENT of itself. This is the only Martial Art that contains RITUALS,
EDUCATION & TRE ATMENT.

The Rituals contain, we worshiping the God inside the Kalari. The arena has to be in
the area of God. Inside the arena, in the
southwest corner, an altar is built for the
presiding deity – a solemn concept. Alongside,
a platform is constructed for GANAPATHY, the
remover of obstacles. The divine serpents also
find their place in the arena. One seat is
arranged for four traditional masters and
twenty-one subsidiary teachers. In addition,
deities like VEERA BHADRA, BHADRA KALI,
and VETTAKK ORU MAKAN are also invoked in astrologically designated corners
like those of Meena [Pisces], Dhabi [Sagittarius] and Methuna [Gemini]. There
aren’t assigned any individual seats.

For the sanctity and safety of the Kalari, on an auspicious day, purificatory rituals
such as VASTHU HOMA, SUDARSHANA HOMA, and GANAPATHY HOMA etc. are
carried out. Outside the Kalari, sacrificial offerings are made to the horde of LORD
SHIVA, in the eight directions, starting from the east. Next follows installation of the
presiding deity, and worship at the altar. Then the master enters the arena paying
his obeisance, lording the scene. This god –figure should clean the arena every
dawn and worship.

The lamp is lit before the altar, flowers beautify the scene, on a plantain –leaf, rice,
betel nut, betel–nut leaves, beaten rice flakes, puffed rice, jigger, banana etc. are
kept as offerings. Then with acceptance of the customary fees from the novices, the
training commences. Before stepping on the arena, the learners turn their eye
eastward in a symbolic obeisance to the traditional customs and rituals that have
been incorporated for moulding mature minds- a generation who will grow up well–
acquainted with traditions. Devotion, discipline, veneration and faith are all integral
to Kalari.

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The novice enters the Kalari putting his right foot forward, he bows and touches the
sacred earth respectfully and prays to the presiding deities. He touches the
master’s feet reverentially. These routine customs are followed both before and
after the practice. The present generation, used to superfluous teacher-taught
relationships in modern society may marvel the strong and sincere master-disciple
bonds in the Kalari system. In today hi-tech educational scenario, the teachers
guides only in specialised areas, merely works on a contract basis–a contract valid
only till the completion of the period, when the teacher–learner bondage also
expires. In contrast, the master–disciple reciprocates a lifetime, but across
generation.

The education contain, that Kalari is the physical & mental training centre. A Martial
Art unique to Kerala, it reigns above all other martial traditions in its scientific
discipline. A graded daily practice results, not only in blooming physical health, but
also in excellence in an outstanding martial style. It ensures the defense of oneself
and of the nation.

The practice of yoga, another contribution by India, has caught the imagination of
the world. The supreme physical flexibility and concentration attained thereby
[attained] can be internalized by training in Kalari. Gradual control of breath is made
possible through the “CHUVADUKKAL” [literally measured footsteps], the basic
factor of this discipline forming the foot-hood for the rest of the activities. As
rhythm is to music, are the “chuvadus” to Kalari. They are scientifically evolved
special positions that help a Kalari practitioner to achieve physical ease, deftness of
action, attention-focus etc. The consequent excellence helps an artist to steal the
limelight in the other ethnic art forms like KATHAKALI, OTTAM THULLAL, KOLKALI
POORAKKALI, and PARICHAMUTTUKALI etc.

It is believed that this most ancient martial culture evolved from Dhanur Veda, a
subsection of Yajur Veda. Its roots are widespread in the Agnipuran [the fire
scripture], Natya shastra, Hastanga shastra, Ayurveda [the science of life] etc. Kalari
was an inevitable part of the medieval socio-political scene in Kerala where the

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provincial rulers patronised this for self-defence. Well-trained Kalari youths formed
the commandos of each principality.

Kalarippayatt is structured with rituals and tradition. An integral part of the Vedas,
it mirrors the ancient Indian vision. Reflecting super human strength and brilliance,
it is rooted in deep faith.

The treatment contains: Kalari has come a long way since the times when it was
used defensively to the modern perception that it is conducive to an individual’s
physical and mental growth. Modern man is a prey to many diseases, thanks to
libertine life style. Diabetes, blood pressure, heart and abdominal diseases are all
common. Despite the strides in science and technology there’s no light at the end
of the tunnel for many diseases mostly precipitated by intense mental tension, the
primary causative factor. Here Kalari comes to our rescue, whereby we can control
the mind and keep the diseases at bay to a great extent. The scientifically
structured arena is as sacred as a place of worship. Manners and customs are
solemnly adhered to and physical purity is a pre-requisite for entering the Kalari. A
certain diet and lifestyle are essential. Intoxication is to be avoided –as also
extreme feeling like desire and anger.

The training is imparted in two phases’ basic exercises forming the bulk of the first-a
combination of pranayama and different yogi postures. The various steps and
movements are all attuned to the various body parts. The excess fat can be removed
and blood- circulation regulated through this. The perfection attained herein forms
the take off points for the second phase when dangerous weapons [like the sword,
the knife etc.] are wielded. Intense concentration, swiftness, muscular strength and
exactitude can be developed by this art. A moment out of focus may Cost one’s
very life. The limbs must move along with the eyes. A firm mind in a firm body
enhances our defence system.

This is only one side of the coin. The other aspect of the treatment of the diseases
affecting our vital parts fractures bruises wounds etc. can be easily attended to. The
extent and degree of damage is determined. Treatment using different kinds of oils

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is imparted for three days or four days or seven days or 41 days in that order.
Diseases deserted by the allopathic stream have been treated successfully. It is
pertinent to remember that the contemporary ideal ‘Health for all’ can be fulfilled
to a great extent through Kalari.

The initiation usually starts at the age of SEVEN. The most important teaching
method of Kalarippayatt is by verbal comments. In Malayalam it is known as
VAYTHARI [Vay –means mouth, Thari – means telling]. The golden age of
Kalarippayatt was from 13th century to 18th century AD. It was with the arrival of the
British that this traditional military practice was forbidden by law and gradually
become virtually extinct.

STRUCTURAL FEATURES OF KALARIPPAYATT

Uniqueness of the institution of the Kalari is clearly evident in its specialized

architecture and the elaborate rituals associated with the process of learning. The
Kalari is always build East – West in direction about 4 feet below ground level,
closed on all sides except for a small door on the Eastern side.

The system of physical and weapon training imparted within the Kalari came to be
called ‘KALARIPPAYATT’ [Kalari being the institution where, Payatt, the exercises for
martial training are practiced.

Kalaris were primarily two types: the first being smaller known as ‘CHERUKALARI’
[Cheru – means small size in Malayalam] ‘KUZHIKALARI’ [Kuzhi – means the portion
formed by caving in the earth’s surface] and the second one known as ‘ANKAKALARI’
[ANKAM – means fight and these Kalari were built specifically for conducting duels.

Cherukalari or Kuzhikalari was built for the purpose of imparting physical and
weapon training and had the resemblance of a temple or worship-place. It was in
this Kalari the systematic training in scientific exercises in Kalarippayatt was
imparted.

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Ankakalari was Kalari constructed temporarily for the purpose of fighting duels to
decide any quarrel between the local rulers or for a cause of revenge for some
reason or other. The conventional measurement of the Ankakalari was 64ft length
and 32ft width.

The day-to-day practice in Kalarippayatt was, as already mentioned, given in the

Cherukalari or Kuzhikalari. The training in this scientifically arranged system was
given in an atmosphere of sanctity and privacy and the Kalari building was
constructed accordingly. The Kuzhikalari is the floor of the Kalari and is built at a
level lower than the surrounding land by removing soil to achieve the necessary
depth. According to the measurements of the ground plan there are five Kalari
structures. They are AIMPATTHERATI KALARI [52ft], NALPAATTERATI KALARI [42ft],
MUPPATTERATI KALARI [32ft], PATHNETTERATI KALARI [18ft], and PANTEERATI
KALARI [12ft].

SITE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE KALARI

Certain conventions have been observed from time immemorial while selecting the
site for the construction of the Kalari. The most acceptable location for this purpose
is the southwest portion of the land ‘EASAKHANDAM’. If there is no residential
house in the northeast portion, shown as ‘MAANUSHAKHANDUM’, the Kalari can be
constructed there also. These are age-old conventions. Such conventions apply to all
buildings including residential house as detailed in ‘THACHU SAASTHRA’ [the ancient
science of construction of all buildings]. In the old days, Kalaris used to be
constructed on land on which there were aristocratic houses. The
ANKACHEKAVANMAR [those who dedicated and lived to fighting duels on behalf of
the local ruler] belonged to the aristocracy and had their Kalari’s established in the
same compound as the house in which they lived.

A WAY OF LIFE

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 In the medieval period of Kerala, this art was the way of life for
warriors. In the way of CHAVER PADA [the suicidal death army], ANKA
CHEKOR [one who is trained for duels], and for GURUKKALS [masters].
The fighter’s function was not in the rivalry among political authorities
alone. Often they were invited for settling disputes between ordinary
people. This practice of using fighters for judicial purposes gave rise to
the local and regional political authorities. Regular income to the
treasury during the rule of he princely states in Kerala included the fees levied on
ANKAM combats were to be collected from the disputing parties. Thus the martial
spirit of Kerala was actively participating in the social and political life of Kerala in
the middle age. It is in this socio-political context that the institution of Kalari
becomes important as a centre for imparting military of the local militia.

AIM OF KALARIPPAYATT

The development of physical culture is an

important part of the social-political-economical
life. In physical culture, the strength of mind is
more important. The aim of Kalarippayatt is not
only self-defense and offence, but also the
strength of the mind through physical exercises.
The strength of the mind is the strength of body.
It enables on the standup to challenges in life
and disciplines both mind and body. So it helps
to develop a better citizen for the nation.

ADVANTAGES OF KALARIPPAYAT

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The ritualistic and spiritual atmosphere in the Kalari plays an important role in
forming character and moral attitude of the students. The present age is very much
polluted by Greed, lust and aggression. Media’s spreading these unhealthy
messages are also spreading in great speed. Youngsters especially are drawn down
easily to hopeless future, vague and unhealthy ideals, horrible diseases, sexual
mania, desertness, depression, aggression, usage of nicotine & alcohol, brown sugar
and such drugs are also increasing heavily. In such a hopeless world the
Kalarippayatt stands as a hope to the future generation showering forth the light of
ancient wisdom, peace, love, compassion, self- improvement, self-realization,
dedication, regroups and hard work and universal brotherhood.

KALARIPPAYATT & OTHER MARTIAL ARTS

Most of the Martial arts from the present day like

KARATE, KUNG–FU, CHINESE KUNG-FU, TAK KWAN
DO, KENDO, JUDO is highly indebted to Kalarippayatt.
Kalarippayatt can be explained as the mother of all
these Martial Arts. You can find the basics of this
Martial art from Kalarippayatt. Let us trace them back
to find how Kalarippayat became Mother of all these.
BODHIDHARMA, whom the Japanese call DARUMA,
was an Indian patriarch; the twenty-eight is the line of
succession from SHAKYAMUNI – BUDDHA, the founder of Buddhism. Bodhidharma
left India to china, arriving there in 520AD. and he established himself at SHOALING
monastery, which had been founded by the Indian monk Batuo some there decades
earlier. Bodhidharma passed on his physical training techniques to the monks at
shoaling, who integrated them into their spiritual training. These techniques were
also used to defend the monastery against bandits who roamed the desolate
Chinese countryside.

Buddhism is well established by the third century BC and continued to flourish it

flourished throughout South India till the fourth Century AD, and began to decline
due to the revival of Hinduism and great Aryan Culture. During this period the

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pallavas were KANCHIPURAM [also Conjeevaram] near Madras, at present the
capital of Tamil Nadu State.

The BODHIDHARMAN was the son of King SIMHAVARMAN of the Pallava dynasty
who ruled from 436-460 AD. It must be true that being a Kshathriya [one who
belongs to warrior community], the Bodhidharman must have learned the fighting
techniques. Inevitable, in the Royal family has to undergo the training for Martial
Arts. It is must for every Kshathriya to study the Martial Arts natural that
Bodhidharma also learned Kalarippyatt. Furthermore, there was a catastrophic flood
during that time which forced all the citizens of Kanchipuram, which was hit badly
by the flood, to move to VANCHINAD [i.e.The southern part of Kerala].

Naturally Bodhidharma must have further studied the Kalarippayatt of the

‘THEKKAN’ [Southern style of Kalarippayat], which is prevalent in that area.
Incidentally, the movements and steps of Karate and Kung fu are closer to the
Thekkan style than the VADAKKAN [Northern style of Kalarippayat].

Before the arrival of Bodhidharma, Buddhism was gaining more acceptances in

CHINA. Many buddhist missionaries went to China and they carried with them the
tradition of INDIAN Art, and it is possible that Indian artists and craftsmen also went.
Even before the death of CHRIST, India and China had business connections.

Due to the decline of the Buddhism in India following widespread opposition and
aggressive attitude of HINDUISM most of the prominent Buddhists fled to
neighboring countries. China was one of the countries which has is welcomed
Buddhism and within no time it was widely accepted. Bodhidharma was an ordinary
priest. He was esteemed among the Buddhists as the 28 patriarch of the church, as
a legitimate practitioner of the fist Apostles of SAKYAMUNI, the rightful occupant of
the chair in which the MAHAKASHYAPA sat during the first council immediately after
the master’s death. Troubles occurred in India and undoubtedly had something to
do with Bodhidharma’s visit to China but apart from that, he had undoubtedly also
come to fulfill a mission of reform. From the above, we can conclude that most of

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the Martial Arts originated from Kalarippayat and it can be considered as the
MOTHER of all the Martial Arts developed in Orient.

THE SYSTEMS

The Kalari training is based on an elaborate system of physical exercises. The

practical experience of the body movements strengthens the knowledge of the
discipline. The constant practice makes the body an eye and adds to agility and
strength. At age seven the student is recruited for his training under a GURUKKAL.
Oil massage or Uzhichil is an essential part of training. The verbal commands of the
Gurukkal known as VAYTTHARI are obeyed and repeated to grasp the body
movement. Each of them helps to recollect memory and leads to correct
movements. Before practice, the student covers their bodies with oil prepared by
the Gurukkal. This specially prepared oil gives strength and flexibility, warms up the
muscles and prevents muscle strain.

Kalarippayatt comprises two major styles which being divided geographically, are
consequently known as the NORTHERN STYLE and SOUTHERN STYLE. The Northern
Style is practiced mainly by the NAYARS, a Malayalam – speaking people who are
part of the ARYAN CULTURAL tradition of North INDIA. Tamil – speaking people who
are a part of DRAVIDIAN CULTURAL descendents of the area’s ancient inhabitants,
who practice the Southern style, occupies the Southern most part of India. A few
Malayalam speakers also practice the Southern style in their area.

Although the Northern and Southern style are obviously closely related, and
Kalarippayatt generally is quite different from the other Martial Arts, significant
distinctions can be made between the two styles. At the geographical boundary
between the two cultural groups and fighting styles there is some overlap.

NORTHERN STYLE

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Sage Parasurama was the Master of Northern style Kalarippayat. The Northern style
Kalarippayat is divided into four part of training. They are Maithari, Kolthari,
Ankkathari, and Verum kaithary.

MAITHARI [Body control Training]

This involves 12 graded body exercise sequence,

which includes twists and turn of the body, leaps
and poses. A single sequence constitutes a
Payatt. In advance stages, one attains various
‘SIDHIS’ [Skills], Viz. Speed, Accuracy, Force,
Stamina, co-ordination, Mastering balance,
Flexibility and Principles of movement in space as well as understanding the
continuous flow of energy in the body.

KOL- THARI [Kol – means stick]

This is the second stage of Kalarippayatt. It involves training in wooden weapons like
‘KETTUKARI’ [12 span staff], ‘MUCHAN’ [ 3span stick], and ‘OTTAKOL’ [‘S’ curved
stick]. Training in Ottakol is a stepping-stone towards to proper execution of
advanced Kalarippayatt. Long practice with this stage enables a student to gain
control over the weapon. Even a small wooden staff can become a weapon in the
hands of a practitioner with dazzling power even against a heavily armed adversary.

ANKATHARI [Metallic weapon fights]

It involves combat training in weapons like the DAGGER [kadaras], the

SWORD&SHIELD [udaval & paricha], the SPEAR [kuntham], the MACE [gatha], the
AXE [mazhu], the KNIFE [kathi] and the LONG FLEXIBLE SWORD [urummi].

VERUM KAITHARI [bare and fights]

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Bare hand fights are a post-graduate course in Kalaripayat. Here an unarmed
combatant fights with an armed enemy and puts him down. Various activities like
OZHIVUKAL [skipping], IRRAKKAM [stepping back], KAYATTAM [stepping forward],
THADA [blocking], PIDUTHAM [catching] and blows and hitting at the VITAL POINTS
[Marmmam – of the body are the main features to this practice].

THE SOUTHERN STYLE

This system gives more importance to footwork [Chuvadukal] and attack with hands.
The special feature of the southern system is ADIMURA – 64 [64types of attacking
blows & locks]. The bare hand has more importance in Adimura, Thattumura,
Pidimura, Marmmamura, and Marmma Adi. Locks and release of locks are also
important. In the foot work systems there are 84 types of movements. They are
ANKACHERY CHUVAD [basic footwork], BALIVAZHI [monkey type footwork],
ANNKAM VETT CHUVAD [bare handfootwork], NAALANNI CHUVAD[heavy-
footwork], KARINADA CHUVAD[elephant footwork], CHEENA YADI CHUVAD[drunken
monkey footwork], and

THATTUMARMA CHUVAD [movement with hitting vital points]. Ner-Chuvad, Privu-

Chuvad, Vatta-Chuvad, Chariv- Chuvad, Otta-Chuvad, and Panchavarna –Chuvad are
also included in the 84types of movements.

ACHARAM [Rituals]

The Kalari is an empty space, for a student the space has all the meaning of life and
supernature. It is an abode of deities and of the several generations of gurus who
has initiated the disciples into training from generation to generation. The student
makes a ritual touch of the earth with right hand and propitiates the goddess of
earth. The touch of his forehead with right hand shows his reverence to the deities
of knowledge.

KANNIMOOLA, the southwestern corner of the Kalari ground is considered to be

sacred to the KALARI PARADEVATHA. This is demarcated by the POOTHARA [seven

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mothers who look after the world] BHAMANI, MAHESWARI, KAWMARI, VAISHNAVI,
VARAHI, INDRANI, and CHAMUNDI with varying numbers of steps in semi-circular
shape narrowing towards the top. A place for the GURU, preceptor, also is
demarcated and this called GURU THARA. The deities like seven mothers at
POOTHARA and gods like SHIVA are also propitiated. Both peace and destruction are
symbolized in the Kalari space.

The training of the student in the Kalari begins at a very early of 7 years with an
initiation ritual performed by the Gurukkal. Attendance in the Kalari is made a part
of a daily routine of the Kalari and he goes through a series of symbolic rituals
everyday, before and after practice, to acquire discipline and concentration.

To be admitted to the Kalari, ‘GURUDAKSHINA’ must be given. Betel leaf, with an

Arrack Nut and Coin placed on it, must be placed in the Guru’s hands. The Sisyas
[student] then, must touch the Guru’s feet and for his blessings. He must them pay
obeisance to the KALARI GODS, the Kalari and the Guru. While picking up the
various items like sticks or weapons, obeisance should be paid to them. In the
practice time the Sisyas wear the LANGOTI or Loincloth and smearing the body with
oil, the student after prostrating before the deities and Gurukkal begins his initial
training with Meithari.

PHYSICAL TREATMENT
The main treatment is UZHICHIL [massage]. Massage has been in vogue all over the
world since time immemorial. Massage is being used of curing diseases in Kerala.
But this science and art has not developed enough in this present age. Even today
there are experts who massage the nerves and veins of patients for curing diseases
and people do regard them highly.

In olden time warriors used to get initiates into the Martial Arts after massage,
which used to continue through out life. In kerala even now, before practicing
Kalarippayat it is customary to massage the whole body and make it ready. Massage
helps to attain a compact physique and to easily and to easily bend or turn any part

17
of the body. Once you become a warrior, massage is necessary to shed physical
fatigue. Exercises and massage are essential to build a healthy body.

In Kalari, massage is done by the GURUKKAL. UZHICHIL is a system of full-body

massage to improve muscle tone, flexibility, stimulate the circulation of blood and
to give long life. Kalari massage can also provide benefits in relation to headaches,
depression, sexual functioning, and back pain. It is intended to cure Kalari – related
orthopaedic injuries and spasmodic diseases. For the students of Kalarippayat who
with to take up the position of GURU, they should become well versed in the ART of
treatment. Massage has one more important benefit, which concerns the flow of
lymph in the body. Lymph is a vital fluid, which purifies the blood, thereby
enhancing the health and beauty of the body. As massage givens an equal effect, it
helps those who cannot do or are not able to do exercises

E.N.S. KALARI

ENS Kalari Centre was established in 1954 at Nettoor, Ernakulam Dist., Kerala, South
India by E.N. SREEPATHY EMBRNTHIRI GURUKKAL. This Kalari gives training in both
Northern and the Southern systems of Kalarippayat. This may perhaps be only Kalari
of this type in Kerala blending both systems. Here, training is given in a Kalari
constructed according to the time honored principles of the Kalari traditions and
according to accepted methods of worshipping the Kalari Gods and Guru, and
performing the necessary rituals.

Now ENS Kalari is a charitable institution run by well-known people from the
community in Kerala. This institute, affiliated to the Kerala Kalarippayat Association
[govt. of Kerala], is the only one of its kind to authorize by Enakulam District Tourism
Promotion Council. ENS Kalari collects and systematically arranges [for the benefit
of students both Indian & Foreign] printed book, videocassettes etc. More and more
foreigners visit ENS Kalari for studying and for seeing Kalarippayat. Lately South
Africa for demonstrating and teaching Kalarippayat sponsored two of the scholars of
ENS Kalari. Every day there is a demonstration from 7 pm to 8pm. The special visit to
Kalari is allowed between 3pm to 7pm every Sunday evening. Those who are

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interested in watching Kalarippayat can make use of this opportunity. This Kalari
started new certificate courses ranging from ONE WEEK to ONE YEAR and Various
SPECIAL COURSES also.

E.N. SREEPATHY EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL [GRAND MASTER][1929-2000]

Familiarly known as MANI SWAMI, Sri.SREEPATHY EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL hails

from a Tulu Brahmin family of Mangalore. Born to Sri NarayananRao and
Smt.Kamala Rao in 1929, at Padubidri in Mangalore, he came to Nettoor at
Ernakulam along with his paternal aunt at the age of two.

After completing his preliminary education, he started taking lessons in the

Traditional Martial Arts called Kalarippayat at the age of 14. As Kalari instruction
was against of his community there was vehement disapproval from all sides. Yet
Sreepathy Embranthiri pursued it with determination. For 11 years he practiced
rigorously the Northern style from Sri KRISHNAN GURUKKAL and the Southern style
from Sri. NARAYANAN GURUKKAL and hence is capable of using both the styles with
ability.

Whilst high priest of Nettoor Mahadeva Temple he used to render free service using
“UZHICHIL, PIZHICHIL” and ‘MARMMACHIKILSA’ unceasing service to society. He
served as a Kalari instructor for about 10 years, from 1960 onwards at Shoranur
High School and from 1974 onwards at Ernakulam Gymnasium. Later, from 1982
onwards he was the instructor at Bharathiya Vidya Bhavan. Meanwhile he initiated
E.N.S.KALARI at Nettoor in 1954.

It was thanks to his inspiration that the normal three-month syllabus was expanded
into a regular daily and weekly cycle designed to operate throughout the year, not
just during the rainy season. This has become the normal present–day Kalari
syllabus.

As a direct result of his spiritual practice linking him with Ganapathy and Hanuman,
he created a new application of Marmma by following the normal Kalari training

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with precise application of Marmma vital points. E.N.SREEPATHY EMBRANTHIRI
GUKKUAL was expired on 11-07-2000.

This institute, affiliated to Kerala Kalarippayat Association and only one of its kind to
be authorised by Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council. Married to Smt.
PADMAVTHY, he has three children: E.S.NARAYANAN EMBRANTHIRI, E.S.JAYASREE
EMBRANTHIRI, and E.S.VIJAYASREE EMBRANTHIRI. They too, like the great masters,
have achieved recognition in this field. At present, the Kalari Demonstration and the
Marma Chikilsa are conducted by his successor NARAYANAN EMBRANTHIRI

E.S.NARAYANAN EMBRANTHIRI

E.S. NARAYANAN EMBRANTIRI, born in 1970 at Ernakulam district, received his

primary Education from his mother, a teacher. His secondary education was at
Panangad High School. He started taking lessons from his father E.S. SREEPATHY
EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL at the age of 14.

His training at the time started at 3.00 am till 5.00 am and in the evenings form 7.30
pm to 9.00 pm. After completing Pre-Degree Education he devoted himself entirely
to the study of Kalari. . He established Kalarippayatt as a regular subject. In 1992
he went to South Africa for the purpose of teaching and demonstrating Kalarippatt
by the invitation of World Seido Karate Association.

He initiated daily Kalari demonstration from 1992. His global knowledge of the
overall structure of Kalarippayatt made it possible for him to innovate modular
Course, special units of varying length appreciated by visitors from abroad. In 1998
he choreographed Music and Kalari in Delhi Doordarshan [All India Television]. He
and disciples demonstrated Kalarippatt for the documentry called Homing Pigeons
by A RA Vision for Ministry of External Affairs Govt. Of India. In 2001 he
choreographed Fight situations for the Greek drama Media and the same year he
also choreographed Kalarippayatt with Yoga and Classical Dance. He is thus
continuing to devote himself full-time to the instruction and development of
KALARIPPAYATT.

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E.S. VIJAYASREE EMBRANTHIRI

VIJAYASREE EMBRANTHIRI was born in 1975 at Ernakulam dist, received her primary
education from her mother, a teacher. Her secondary education was at st. mary;s
upper primary school Maradu, high school study at govt. place school, Tripunithura.
Her pre-degree education was at Aquinas collage in Edakochi and she took B.Sc
maths at St.Paul’s collage in Kalamassary. Both her B.PEd. [ Bachelor of Physical
Education] and her M.PEd [Master of Physical Education] orginated from Sree
Sarada collage at Salem.

She took Y.T.T.C [Yoga Teacher’s Training Course] in Sivananda arsam at Neyar Dam.
She started Kalari training at the age of 11 with her father E.N. SREEPATHY
EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL. She practised with her brother. She is the assistant
teacher at E.N.S Kalari. She is the spokes woman of E.N.S.Kalari.

By
E.S.NARAYANAN EMBRANTHIRI GURUKKAL
ENS KALARI & MARMMACHIKILSA KENDRUM
NETTOOR POST, ERNAKULAM DIST,KERALA
INDIA
Mail : narayanan.ens@gmail.com
enskalari@vsnl.net
ens_kalari@yahoo.co.in
www.enskalari.org.in

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