Chennai Kalaripayattu, Chennai, Tamilnadu

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.



About the Instructor – P. Balamurugan

P. Balamurugan, the founder and chief instructor of Chennai Kalaripayattu, is a highly skilled practitioner trained under Shaji K. John of the Shaji School of Kalaripayattu. He has over 7 years of experience in the Northern (Vadakkan) style of Kalaripayattu.

In 2017, he established Chennai Kalaripayattu with the goal of spreading this traditional artform in Chennai. His contributions include:

  • Training students at Kalakshetra between 2019 and 2022
  • Conducting workshops in schools and institutions across Chennai
  • Delivering an intensive 15-day training program for National Security Guard (NSG) commandos

Apart from martial arts, he is also an accomplished folk and theatre artist, skilled in traditional forms like Therukoothu, Oyilattam, and Devarattam.


Training Programs at Chennai Kalaripayattu

Vadakkan Sampradayam (Northern Style)

The academy specializes in the Vadakkan (Northern) style of Kalaripayattu, which emphasizes:

  • Fluid and flexible body movements
  • Improved agility and posture
  • Enhanced balance and control

This style is especially beneficial for performing artists, dancers, and athletes who require high levels of flexibility and precision.


Meipayattu (Body Conditioning)

Meipayattu forms the foundation of training and focuses on:

  • Flexibility and balance
  • Body control and coordination
  • Proper landing techniques

It prepares students for advanced movements and weapon training.


Kolthari (Wooden Weapon Training)

This stage introduces wooden weapons and develops speed, coordination, and reflexes.

Kettukari (Long Stick)

  • Typically around 170 cm in length
  • Used with wide circular movements
  • Helps develop control and rhythm in combat techniques

Cheruvadi (Short Stick)

  • A fast-paced weapon used at close range
  • Improves agility and reaction time
  • Trains practitioners to overcome fear in combat situations

Otta (Curved Wooden Weapon)

  • A unique weapon designed to target vital points (marmam)
  • Enhances precision and advanced combat strategies

Ankathari (Metal Weapon Training)

Advanced students progress to metal weapons training, which requires high discipline and control.

Kadara (Dagger)

  • Designed for piercing strikes
  • Allows full body strength to be applied during combat

Valum Parichayum (Sword and Shield)

  • Combines offense and defence techniques
  • Includes advanced strategies like shield-based tactical moves

History and Significance of Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu has deep roots in ancient India, with references dating back to the Sangam period (200 BCE – 600 CE), where warriors trained in weapons such as swords, spears, bows, and shields. 

The term “Kalari” refers to the training space or battlefield, while “Payattu” means practice. Over centuries, this martial art evolved through a combination of indigenous techniques and traditional training systems. Today, Kalaripayattu is recognized as a holistic discipline that integrates physical fitness, mental clarity, and cultural heritage.


Benefits of Learning Kalaripayattu

Training at Chennai Kalaripayattu offers multiple benefits:

  • Improves strength, flexibility, and endurance
  • Enhances mental focus and discipline
  • Builds self-confidence and self-defence skills
  • Supports overall health and immunity
  • Encourages mind-body coordination and awareness

Contact Details

📍 Map:




Address : Women's Association, 44, 1st Main Road, Indira Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600020
📞 Phone: 09841938044
📧 Email: chennaikalaripayattu@gmail.com
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Website: https://www.chennaikalaripayattu.com/


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Why Choose Chennai Kalaripayattu?

  • Authentic traditional training methods
  • Experienced and certified instructor
  • Suitable for all age groups and skill levels
  • Focus on fitness, self-defence, and cultural learning
  • Proven track record with workshops and institutional training