Meithari
The first stage — body conditioning through postures (vadivu), kicks, jumps, and fluid sequences that build the physical foundation.
Swathanthra Kalari Sangham
Preserving the timeless tradition of Kalaripayattu since 1959 — in the lineage of Ustad TP Kalandan Gurukkal.
Kalaripayattu is among the oldest living martial arts — a complete system of body, mind, breath, and discipline. At our kalari we teach its four traditional stages.
The first stage — body conditioning through postures (vadivu), kicks, jumps, and fluid sequences that build the physical foundation.
Training with wooden weapons — the long staff (kettukari), short stick (cheruvadi), and the curved otta.
Metal weapons — sword and shield (val-paricha), spear (kuntham), dagger, and the flexible urumi.
The final stage — empty-hand combat. Locks, throws, and knowledge of the body's vital points (marma).
Swathanthra Kalari Sangham was formed in 1959 at Thamarassery by Ustad TP Kalandan Gurukkal — a master dedicated to preserving the full Kerala tradition of Kalaripayattu, drawing from all three regional styles: Vadakkan, Thekkan, and Madya Kerala. In 1963, SKS settled its permanent home at Anappara, Kunnamangalam, where it has operated ever since.
Today the kalari is led by his son, TP Dakwan Gurukkal, who continues to train the next generation in the same disciplined, traditional manner his father taught.
TP Dakwan Gurukkal performs a traditional sword fight at Bharat Mela — the cultural showcase organised by the Embassy of India in Kuwait, February 2026.
Students of all ages are welcome. Training follows classical principles — discipline, patience, and steady progress under the Gurukkal's guidance.