Kalaripayattu Academy planned in Thiruvananthapuram

Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art form of the State, is all set to get a boost with the State government’s Kalaripayattu Academy being established in the capital. The Kalaripayattu Academy is being set up at the Vellar Craft Village under the Department of Tourism.

 

The 3,500 sq. ft. gallery is expected to be completed in two months. Classes will be conducted here by the Kalari Asans (gurus) led by Padma Shri Meenakshiamma. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will release the syllabus of Kalaripayattu Academy on January 16 during the inauguration of the renovated Craft Village.

 

The Kalaripayattu Academy plans to admit 100 students initially. The training will be imparted in two batches, from 5am to 8am and from 5pm to 7pm. Children and adults will have the opportunity to undertake training.

 

There are also plans to link the Kalaripayattu Academy with the Dance Training College, which is part of the Craft Village. Classes will be organised in such a way that Kalaripayattu training will be helpful for those who are learning dance also.

 

Kalaripayattu, also known simply as ‘Kalari’, is known for its long-standing history within Indian martial arts and is believed to be the oldest surviving martial art in India.