KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER
Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram
With a history of more than 2000 years, Kalarippayattu, which originated in Kerala, is considered the mother of all martial arts in the world. It is one of the traditional branches of knowledge as expounded in vedic texts. Learning of Kalarippayattu is traditionally held in kalaris under the able guidance of a master called
gurukkal.
In Kerala, there exists two different schools of Kalarippayattu viz. the northern and southern schools. The Indian School of Martial Arts (ISMA) is one such centre of repute in the field of southern Kalarippayattu in Kerala. Located at Parasuvaikkal in the southern part of Thiruvananthapuram district, ISMA currently functions from a complex here under a new name - Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram.
Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram headed by Guru Balachandran Nair, presently known as Sat Guru Dharmananda Hanuman Das is sought by those interested in learning Kalarippayattu and also for seeking services in Kalarichikilsa
, which is a system of treatment for rejuvenation and healing in the kalari mode. Guru Balachandran Nair is one of the few surviving masters of Kalarippayattu, who has dedicated his life to sustain the popularity of this ancient martial art form.
Kalarippayattu training at Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram
Students interested in undergoing training in Kalarippayattu at Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram must first get registered for the courses. It is a graded training schedule, demanding dedication, discipline and devotion. The courses here include the Basic Level, which involves unarmed techniques leading to mastery over one's body movements and balance; the Intermediate Level in which students are trained to attain agility, flexibility and co -ordination of body movements; the Advanced Level, here the training involves those with weapons; both blunt and sharp; the Senior Level, which is basically meant for getting trained in traditional sword fighting and the Instructor Level for attaining proficiency in the usage of sword and shield, spear and lastly urumi or the long coiled sword. Graded certification of progress and proficiency is awarded to those taking part in the Basic, Intermediate, Advanced and Instructor level courses.
Kalari treatment
Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram is also noted for kalari treatment. In this system of treatment, the exact treatments received will depend on the constitution of the person's body, nature of the ailment, and the diagnosis of the Guru. Marma treatment is an integral part of kalari treatment, which is done by techniques applied to nerve nodal points in the body for rejuvenation and to check toxic imbalances. At Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram, all treatments are supervised and directed by the Guru. Treatments will differ from person to person and will be performed by highly experienced practitioners.
Other specialities
When it comes to food, Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram has its own farm, where it produces many items that go to meet its food requirements. Grown in an organic way; rice, vegetables, fruits and coconuts form part of the farming produce here. Here, fresh vegetarian meals are prepared in the traditional style of south Kerala. The Ashram is also capable of meeting its own dairy requirements.
At Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram, one could also become part of the time-tested traditions and customs of Kerala. There is a beautiful temple here, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, where all can visit and partake in the daily worship and sacred chantings. Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram also celebrates some of the festival occasions of Kerala in traditional gaiety.
The Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram comes with all modern facilities. Spacious en suite rooms allow guests to relax between treatments and enjoy traditional vegetarian food in a beautiful dining hall. Accommodation in the form of comfortable rooms and cottages with all modern conveniences is available. Appointments will have to be made in advance.
Those visiting Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram would greatly enjoy the exceptional peace and beauty of its premises and the overall ambience; which are very conducive to both healing and relaxation.
Contact
Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram
Parusuvaikkal, P.O. Parassala
Thiruvananthapuram- 695508
Kerala, South India
Phone: +91-471-2232686
Email: masterkalariyil@yahoo.co.in
Website: www.dharmikam.com
