Thu Nov 14 16:47:02 UTC 2024: ## Noida’s Kalari Kendram Keeps Ancient Martial Art Alive

**NOIDA, INDIA -** Nestled in the heart of Noida, Kalari Kendram stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Kalaripayattu, a centuries-old martial art from Kerala. Founded in 2008 by Gurukkal Shinto Mathew, the institution offers a comprehensive training program for students of all ages, instilling the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the art form.

The traditional learning hall, with its earthen floor and shrine dedicated to various deities, sets the stage for an immersive experience. Students, ranging from young children to adults, learn the controlled movements, incorporating animal postures and techniques, under the strict guru-shishya system.

Mathew emphasizes that Kalaripayattu goes beyond combat, serving as a way of life and a cultural heritage. “It’s not just about fighting, it’s about discipline, grace, and inner calm,” he explains. The institution also offers scholarships to financially disadvantaged students, fostering inclusivity in the art form.

The Kendram boasts a diverse student body, with girls increasingly drawn to Kalaripayattu for self-defense. For some, like Aniket Singh, a young student from Bihar, the allure lies in the traditional weapons used. Others, like school principal Pushkar Joshi, find themselves captivated by the ancient culture and the guru-shishya tradition.

Beyond the martial art, Kalari Kendram also provides traditional treatments for injuries, known as kalarichikiltsa. This non-medical practice, passed down through generations, utilizes massage and other techniques to address muscular and skeletal injuries sustained during training.

Kalari Kendram has garnered international recognition, participating in events like the World Martial Arts Festival in Indonesia and the International Folklore Conference in Egypt. Their dedication to preserving and promoting Kalaripayattu has cemented their place as a cultural beacon in Noida.

For those interested in experiencing this ancient art form firsthand, Kalari Kendram offers classes five days a week in Noida and three days in Mayur Vihar, with flexible timings. The fee is ₹2,000 per month for five classes. For more details, contact 9711804975.

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