Guardians of Tradition :Interview

 

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: Agasthyam has a long lineage of Kalaripayattu practitioners. Can you tell us about your journey and how your family’s teachings have influenced your approach?

Gurukkal : I am blessed to carry forward a lineage where Kalaripayattu has been more than just a practice—it has been a way of life. My roots go deep, with generations dedicated to this art. The teachings passed down from my ancestors go beyond techniques; they instill a holistic vision of Kalaripayattu as a means of achieving physical, mental, and spiritual balance. Our training spaces have always been centers of learning, where discussions on martial arts, philosophy, and healing take place. This immersive experience has shaped my approach, reinforcing that Kalaripayattu is as much about character and discipline as it is about combat.

Questions: Agasthyam has made significant strides in bringing Kalaripayattu to modern audiences. What are some key initiatives that have helped achieve this?

Gurukkal : We have undertaken several initiatives to ensure the relevance of Kalaripayattu in contemporary society. Our structured programs such as Nithyam, Nalludal, Prana, Akam, Balam, and Sampradayam cater to different needs, from personal fitness to professional training. Through collaborations with institutions like the Indian Army, Customs, Narcotics, and IITs, we have demonstrated the practical applications of Kalaripayattu in self-defense, stress management, and leadership development.

The Shakthi initiative has been particularly impactful, empowering over 12,000 women and girls with self-defense skills. Additionally, the National Martial Arts Mela, which we hosted in 2022, brought together practitioners of various indigenous martial arts, reinforcing our commitment to preserving and promoting these traditions on a national platform.

Questions: Agasthyam is now recognized as an Indian Knowledge System Center by the Ministry of Education. What does this recognition mean for you?

Gurukkal : This recognition is a significant milestone. It validates our efforts in preserving Kalaripayattu and Siddha wisdom as integral parts of India’s cultural heritage. As an IKS Center, we now have a greater responsibility to document, research, and propagate this knowledge to wider audiences. It also allows us to collaborate with academic and research institutions, ensuring that Kalaripayattu is studied not just as a martial art but as a holistic science that benefits the mind, body, and spirit.

Questions: Your journey in Kalaripayattu has been extraordinary, from secret training sessions during the British-imposed bans to introducing self-defense techniques on digital platforms. How do you see the future of Kalaripayattu evolving?

Gurukkal : Kalaripayattu is at a crucial juncture. While it has faced challenges in the past, today, there is a renewed interest in traditional martial arts and holistic wellness. With advancements in technology, we have the opportunity to take Kalaripayattu to a global audience. In 2009, I was among the first to introduce self-defense videos on YouTube, and now, digital platforms allow us to engage with students worldwide.

Looking ahead, I aim to integrate Kalaripayattu into school curriculums, corporate wellness programs, and even rehabilitation centers. The physical, mental, and philosophical aspects of Kalaripayattu make it a powerful tool for personal development, and I want to ensure that its benefits are accessible to as many people as possible.

Questions: Finally, what message would you like to share with those who are interested in learning Kalaripayattu but may feel hesitant?

Gurukkal : Kalaripayattu is not just for warriors—it is for everyone. It is a discipline that strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and awakens the spirit. Regardless of age, gender, or background, anyone can practice and benefit from it. I encourage people to take the first step, embrace the journey, and experience the transformative power of this ancient art. At Agasthyam, we welcome all seekers who wish to explore this path of self-discovery and empowerment.

ABOUT AUTHOR

Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh, is a fifth-generation Kalaripayattu master, celebrated as a “Warrior Monk” ,a self-realized spiritual leader and founder of Agasthyam kalaripayattu. Deeply rooted in a 129-year-old lineage, his journey is marked by profound self-awakening and dedication to the Thekkan Sampradayam (Southern Tradition) of Kalaripayattu. His teachings unify physical mastery, mental clarity, and spiritual insight, making Kalaripayattu a global path for holistic well-being. As co-principal investigator of the IKS Center for Kalaripayattu and Siddhar Tradition, he promotes Kalaripayattu’s healing wisdom as vital for modern life. An author and filmmaker, Dr. Mahesh’s legacy inspires resilience, self-discovery, and unity in seekers worldwide