Project Shakthi :Interview

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 lifetime. In India, crimes against women have risen by over 15% in the past decade. How does Kalaripayattu address these pressing issues?

Gurukkal : These numbers are a stark reminder of the challenges women face every day. The best response to fear is empowerment, and this is where the Shakthi initiative plays a crucial role. Shakthi is not just about self-defense—it is about reclaiming confidence, presence, and the ability to stand one’s ground.

So far, over 12,000 women and girls have benefited from our training, learning techniques that go beyond physical defense to include situational awareness, mental fortitude, and assertive action. When a woman knows she has control over her own safety, her entire outlook on life changes.

Questions: Can you share how your personal journey has influenced your dedication to this cause?

Gurukkal : My lineage has always viewed martial arts as a means of protection, not just for oneself but for the community. Kalaripayattu is not about aggression; it is about responsibility. The knowledge I have inherited comes with the duty to empower those who need it most. Seeing women walk out of our training sessions with renewed confidence and strength is the greatest reward.

Questions: What do you see as the future of self-defense and women's empowerment through Kalaripayattu?

Gurukkal : The future lies in making this knowledge widely available. We aim to integrate self-defense programs into school curriculums, corporate training, and community initiatives so that no woman ever feels defenseless. Through digital platforms, we can now reach even more people, ensuring that this ancient wisdom serves the modern world. My goal is simple—every woman should walk without fear.

Questions: What would you say to women hesitant to take the first step toward learning self-defense?

Gurukkal : Strength is already within you. Shakthi is about awakening it. Every woman has the right to safety, confidence, and self-respect. Kalaripayattu is not just about fighting—it is about living with courage. Take the first step, and the journey will transform you.

Questions: Thank you for sharing your insights. Your work is truly inspiring, and we hope to see Shakthi continue to impact lives across the country and beyond.

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