Gurukkal Blogs

DYNAMIC YOGA Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker            Kalaripayattu, often referred to as the mother of all martial arts, is not just a combat system but a profound yogic practice that unites the body, mind, and spirit. Unlike static postures in conventional yoga, Kalaripayattu is dynamic, integrating breath, movement, and awareness into a seamless flow of energy. Rooted in the wisdom of the Siddhars, it aligns with the five koshas—sharpening the physical body, refining pranic energy, disciplining the mind, awakening intuition, and leading to higher consciousness. Through disciplined practice, the warrior transforms into a yogi, experiencing oneness with the universe. This ancient science is not merely about self-defense; it is about self-realization. Kalaripayattu, when practiced with devotion, becomes a moving meditation—a...

Project Shakthi :Interview with Gurukkal S. Mahesh on Preserving legacy of Kalaripayattu and Women Empowerment  Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker Questions :  Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Can you share with us your vision for Kalaripayattu and its role in society? Gurukkal :  Kalaripayattu is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life, deeply rooted in self-discipline, physical well-being, and spiritual growth. My vision is to make this ancient wisdom accessible to all, especially to those who need strength and confidence the most. Beyond combat, Kalaripayattu instills resilience, focus, and inner balance, making it a powerful tool for transformation. Questions :  The statistics on violence against women are alarming. Reports show that 1 in 3 women globally experience physical or sexual violence in their lif...

  Guardians of Tradition: Interview with Gurukkal S. Mahesh on Kalaripayattu and Siddha Wisdom Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker Questions:  Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Agasthyam Foundation is widely recognized for its contribution to Kalaripayattu and Siddha traditions. Can you share with us the vision behind Agasthyam? Gurukkal :  Agasthyam was born out of a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Kalaripayattu as a holistic discipline that extends beyond martial arts. I believe in integrating the wisdom of Kalaripayattu with the principles of Siddha healing, ensuring that it serves as a tool for self-discovery, empowerment, and well-being. My vision is to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, making Kalaripayattu accessible to people from all walks of life while maintaining its authenticity. Questions...

  Styles in Kalaripayattu.  Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker                                   Kalaripayattu is the strength and foundation of Kerala. History always travels with warriors, and our warriors came from our Kalaris. This was the strength and beauty of Kerala—an unbreakable legacy. Kalaripayattu never discriminated based on sex, religion, caste, or creed. Boys and girls alike received this fundamental education, creating a society of warrior leaders who were immortalized by their courage. While Kalaripayattu is deeply rooted in Kerala, equivalent martial traditions exist in other parts of South India. In Karnataka, we have Garidis, and in Tamil Nadu, we see Silambam, Adithada, Adimurai, and Varma Kalai. More than just historical records, these traditio...

  GURUKULAM Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker                                    I n ancient times, the gurukulam system of education was not just away to acquire knowledge—it was a way of life. Education wasn’t confined to books or classrooms but was deeply rooted in the relationship between the Guru and the student, the shishya. Back then, the responsibility of learning rested entirely on the Guru.                   The Guru was not just a teacher but a mentor, guide, and even a parent to the student. The Guru would observe, understand, and nurture each student based on their unique potential. But today, the situation is reversed. In modern education, the responsibility of learn...

       VASISTA VISWAMITRA  Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker The Journey of Vishwamitra to Brahmarsi        Students, let us delve into a remarkable story that embodies perseverance, transformation, and the profound teachings of Dhanurveda. The journey of Vishwamitra from a powerful king to the exalted status of Brahmarsi—offers invaluable lessons for our own lives and  aspirations. The Ambition of a King             Vishwamitra was not born a sage. He was a celebrated king, renowned for his valor and  ambition. Yet, even with all his wealth and power, there was a yearning within him—a desire to transcend his worldly identity and attain spiritual enlightenment.  Realizing that true fulfillment lay beyond material success, he renounced his kingdom and set  out on a ...