Gurukkal Blogs

 Kalaripayattu: The Ancient Path to Holistic Wellness   Author Gurukkal Dr. S Mahesh    – The Warrior Monk   Indian Martial Arts Guru | Spiritual Visionary | Founder, Agasthyam Foundation | Author & Filmmaker Q Thank you for giving us the opportunity to speak with you, could you provide  an overview of your family’s engagement with Kalarippayattu and the history of  Agasthyam Foundation? Gurukkal S. Mahesh:You know, my journey into Kalaripayattu didn’t start from a  decision — it was something I was born into. My father, Sanalji Gurukkal, was my  biggest inspiration. He wasn’t just a teacher to me, he was a living example of what it  meant to live this path — fully, completely.  Our family carries a legacy that goes back more than 150 years, starting from a small  village called Vedanthara, before settling in Nemom. This tradition began with my  ancestor Ashan Vaidyar and his wife, Chakki. Ashan Vaidyar was a yogi, a d...

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...

  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...