Kalaripayattu, India’s ancient Martial Art, is widely regarded as one of the oldest martial arts in the world, with roots in India dating back thousands of years. Traditionally believed to have been founded by Sage Parashurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, this martial art represents a powerful blend of combat techniques, discipline, and spiritual development. The term Kalaripayattu comes from two words: Kalari (training ground) and Payattu (practice or combat), symbolizing a systematic approach to martial training. Over centuries, this art evolved in South India, especially in Kerala, where it became deeply embedded in cultural and warrior traditions. Historically, Kalaripayattu flourished during the era of South Indian dynasties such as the Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas. Continuous warfare and the need for skilled warriors helped shape this art into a structured and highly effective system of combat. The techniques are inspired by nature and animal movements, making training both dynamic and deeply connected to natural instincts. Despite facing challenges during the colonial period, when martial training was discouraged, Kalaripayattu survived through dedicated practitioners who preserved its teachings in secrecy. Today, it is experiencing a revival and is gaining popularity across India and globally as a powerful form of self-defence, physical fitness, and mental discipline.
Kalari Kendram is a leading center for Kalaripayattu training in Delhi NCR, dedicated to preserving and promoting one of India’s oldest martial arts traditions. Established in 2008, it was among the first institutions to introduce a traditional Kalari (training temple) setup in the National Capital Region. Recognized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Kalari Kendram focuses on delivering authentic training rooted in classical values while making this ancient art accessible to modern learners. The academy welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and provides structured learning for both beginners and advanced practitioners. At Kalari Kendram, Kalaripayattu is not viewed merely as a combat technique but as a complete discipline that develops physical strength, mental focus, emotional balance, and self-awareness.
Buddha Kalari is one of Kerala’s most respected institutions for Kalaripayattu training and Marma Ayurveda therapy, with a legacy that dates back to 1924. Known for preserving ancient Indian wisdom, the academy has maintained its traditional roots while offering authentic training and healing practices to students and patients from across India and around the world. Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Buddha Kalari is not just a martial arts school—it is a holistic wellness center where martial arts, Ayurveda, and spirituality are integrated into a single system for overall well-being.
Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram is a renowned spiritual, healing, and martial arts center in Trivandrum, Kerala, established in 2003. Located in the peaceful village of Parasuvaikkal, the ashram provides an ideal environment for those seeking traditional healing, Kalaripayattu training, and inner transformation. The ashram represents a unique blend of ancient South Indian martial arts, Kalari Chikilsa (healing therapies), and spiritual practices, creating a holistic experience that nurtures the body, mind, and soul. It welcomes visitors from around the world who wish to explore traditional Indian wisdom, wellness therapies, and disciplined training in an authentic setting.
Belraj Kalari is a well-known center for Kalaripayattu training in Mumbai, dedicated to preserving and promoting Kerala’s ancient martial art tradition. Established in 2013, the academy offers authentic instruction in Kalaripayattu, self-defence, physical conditioning, and Kalari-based healing therapies. The academy is led by Belraj Soni, a highly experienced martial artist, performer, and trainer with more than 30 years of experience in Kalaripayattu. Known for her dedication and deep knowledge of traditional techniques, she has trained under some of Kerala’s most respected Gurukkals, ensuring that the teachings remain rooted in authentic lineage.
Chennai Kalaripayattu is a renowned martial arts training center located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to preserving and promoting Kalaripayattu, one of India’s oldest and most respected martial art forms. Established in 2017, the academy focuses on delivering authentic, traditional training while adapting techniques to suit modern fitness, wellness, and self-defence needs. The training center offers structured programs for beginners, intermediate learners, and advanced practitioners, making it an ideal destination for anyone interested in learning this ancient discipline. Students not only develop physical strength and flexibility but also enhance mental focus, coordination, discipline, and overall well-being. Kalaripayattu training here emphasizes a holistic approach, balancing body, mind, and awareness, making it suitable for people of all age groups.
Lubaina Kalari is one of the most respected Kalaripayattu training centres in Kerala, preserving the authentic traditions of this ancient Indian martial art since 1959. Founded by the legendary Abdullakutty Gurukkal, the institution has played a significant role in nurturing thousands of students and promoting Kalaripayattu across India and beyond. Located in Ernakulam, Kochi, Lubaina Kalari offers comprehensive training in the Central (Madhya Kerala) style of Kalaripayattu, which emphasizes body control, discipline, and practical self-defence techniques. The academy is widely recognized not only for martial arts training but also for its holistic approach, integrating healing therapies, traditional treatments, and physical conditioning.
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Agasthyam Kalari is a renowned institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Kalaripayattu, India’s oldest martial art, along with the sacred knowledge of Siddha healing traditions. Established in 1896, Agasthyam stands as a living legacy that blends ancient wisdom with modern-day relevance. Under the leadership of Gurukkal Dr. S. Mahesh, a fifth-generation master, Agasthyam has evolved into a center for physical discipline, mental clarity, and holistic wellbeing. The institution continues to inspire individuals across all age groups to build strength, resilience, focus, and inner balance through traditional training methods adapted for contemporary lifestyles.
Martial Warriors Academy in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, is a specialized training center focused on delivering authentic martial arts education and holistic development. Founded by Warrior Ranjit Mishra, the academy was created to bridge the gap between traditional martial arts knowledge and modern training practices. The academy stands out by offering a complete martial arts system, combining both offensive and defensive techniques. Unlike many institutes that focus only on physical training, Martial Warriors Academy emphasizes the development of: • Physical strength and endurance • Internal energy and awareness • Mental discipline and focus • Spiritual growth and self-mastery This holistic approach ensures that every student becomes a well-rounded martial artist and a true warrior, not just a practitioner.
The Simashan Institute of Martial Arts, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is a premier training center dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Indian martial arts while integrating modern fitness practices. Established in 2001, the institute offers a holistic approach to health by combining Silambam, Yoga, and gym-based fitness training. Situated in the heart of the historic Temple City of Madurai, the institute is easily accessible and well-equipped with advanced gym facilities. It is recognized as one of the leading martial arts and fitness training centers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on enhancing physical strength, mental clarity, and spiritual well-being. What makes Simashan unique is its ability to blend traditional martial arts techniques with contemporary aerobic and anaerobic fitness methods. This combination helps students improve flexibility, stamina, discipline, and overall health in a structured and effective manner.
Veda Martial Arts Academy International, commonly known as Veda Academy, is a premier martial arts and wellness training center located in Thrissur, Kerala. The academy is dedicated to fostering holistic development of mind and body through a unique blend of traditional martial arts, modern fitness training, and lifestyle education. The academy offers a diverse range of disciplines, including Kalarippayattu (Kerala’s traditional martial art), Okinawan Kobu-Do, Japanese Karate, Yoga, physical fitness training, and Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapies. What distinguishes Veda Academy is its integrated training model that combines self-defense, physical conditioning, mental discipline, and spiritual awareness, making it ideal for individuals seeking complete personal development.
CVN Kalari Nadakav, located in Nadakav, Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, is one of the most renowned and historic centres for Kalaripayattu training and Ayurvedic healing in India. Established by Late Sri K. Narayanan Gurukkal, the institution has played a vital role in preserving and promoting this ancient martial art for over 70 years. Situated in the heart of Kozhikode city, CVN Kalari has become a global destination for students and enthusiasts seeking authentic training in Kalaripayattu, Kalari Marma therapy, and Ayurveda. Guru Narayanan Gurukkal, who belonged to a legendary Ayurvedic family from North Malabar, was instrumental in reviving Kalaripayattu during a time when traditional martial arts were declining. His dedication brought this powerful art form back into practice, attracting disciples from India as well as around the world. Today, the legacy continues under experienced Gurukkals, offering structured training, healing therapies, and cultural programs that combine martial arts, wellness, and spiritual discipline.
Guru Chand Roop Akhara is a renowned traditional Indian wrestling academy located in Azadpur, Delhi. Known for preserving the rich heritage of kushti (Indian wrestling), the akhara continues to nurture young athletes through disciplined training and a holistic lifestyle rooted in ancient practices. Wrestling in India is deeply rooted in tradition and is typically practiced in a mud or clay pit (akhara). The soil is carefully prepared with natural ingredients like ghee to maintain its texture and hygiene. This unique training environment helps improve strength, endurance, and balance while minimizing injuries. At Guru Chand Roop Akhara, wrestling is not just a sport—it is a way of life. Wrestlers live by strict codes of conduct that emphasize: • Physical fitness and daily training • Pure and disciplined living • Nutritious diet and routine • Avoidance of habits like smoking, alcohol, and indulgence This disciplined lifestyle helps athletes build both mental and physical strength, making them capable competitors at national and international levels.