About Kalarigram
Kalarigram is a pioneering institution committed to the preservation, practice, and promotion of Kalaripayattu, India’s oldest martial art. Established in 2010 under the guidance of Shri M. Ramesan Gurukkal. Located in Auroville in Tamil Nadu, Kalarigram is more than a martial arts school. It is a spiritual and cultural Gurukulam, where students immerse themselves in Kalaripayattu as a sacred path of discipline and transformation.
It is a vibrant living space dedicated to preserving and embodying the ancient wisdom of Bharat - through the body, the breath and the spirit. We draw from the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita (Śāstra) and we practice Kalaripayattu (Shastra) as a form of living our dharma.
Website: www.kalarigram.org
About Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is considered the mother of all martial arts, dating back over 3,000 years. It integrates:
- Dynamic body movements rooted in animal postures (Vadivus)
- Combat sequences using traditional weapons like long staff, sword, shield, and the unique flexible sword (Urumi)
- Fluid sequences (Meipayattu) blending grace, agility, and power
- A profound connection to Indian philosophy, discipline and self-mastery
Kalaripayattu has influenced global martial traditions (such as Kung Fu and Karate) and continues to inspire modern dance, theatre and movement arts.
To us, Kalaripayattu is not just a martial tradition, it is a healing path, a spiritual discipline and a way to awaken the mind and body to higher states of clarity and service. Just as Bhagavan Krishna chose to deliver the Gita in the chaos of the battlefield to a deeply conflicted Arjuna, we see our training ground as a place where inner confusion is transformed into clarity and purpose. The practice of Kalari, when combined with the study of Gita, purifies the inner space and prepares the student for deep reception. This is the unique value we strive to impart at Kalarigram.
