Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram – A Center of Kalaripayattu, Healing and Spiritual Tradition

Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram is a serene and self-contained spiritual and healing center located in Southern Kerala, dedicated to preserving the ancient Indian traditions of Kalaripayattu and Kalari Chikitsa. Established in 1983 by Guru Balachandran Nair (Satguru Dharamananda Swaroopa Hanuman Das), the Ashram serves as the headquarters of the Indian School of Martial Arts (ISMA), where the Southern style of Kalaripayattu is practiced and taught. Designed as a peaceful retreat immersed in nature, the Ashram offers an environment that supports physical training, mental discipline and spiritual growth.

Surrounded by organic farms, medicinal gardens and fruit orchards, Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram promotes a sustainable lifestyle where guests receive traditional South Kerala vegetarian meals prepared using fresh farm produce and dairy from grass-fed cows. The peaceful environment enhances healing, meditation, yoga and spiritual practices making it a complete wellness destination for body, mind, and spirit.

Kalaripayattu Training, Kalari Chikitsa and Holistic Healing at Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram

Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram offers structured Kalaripayattu training programs for students of all ages and fitness levels, ranging from beginner to instructor levels. Training includes body conditioning, flexibility, weapon practice, self defense techniques and study of vital energy points known as Marmas. The practice builds strength, discipline, focus and agility while promoting mental clarity and spiritual awareness through disciplined martial training.

Alongside martial arts education, the Ashram is widely recognized for Kalari Chikitsa, a traditional healing system rooted in Ayurveda and Siddha traditions. This therapy includes customized treatment plans for various ailments, injuries and lifestyle disorders using herbal medicines, medicated oils, diet planning and lifestyle guidance. All treatments are supervised by trained Ayurvedic doctors and Kalari practitioners ensuring a personalized healing experience for each guest.

1. Kalari Training (Kalaripayattu)
At Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram, Kalaripayattu training is open to students of all ages and fitness levels, provided they have the commitment, discipline and dedication to learn this ancient martial art. The training system is structured in progressive levels starting from Basic, followed by Intermediate, Advanced and Instructor stages. Each level is designed to gradually enhance physical strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination and mental focus.

The training includes traditional body conditioning, self-defense techniques, weapon training and the study of Marma points (vital energy points of the body). Along with physical development, students also gain mental discipline, concentration and inner confidence through consistent practice. Regular one-on-one sessions, group classes, seasonal camps and specialized workshops are conducted throughout the year, including advanced training for senior practitioners and instructors.

2. Kalari Chikitsa (Traditional Healing System)
Kalari Chikitsa at the Ashram is a holistic healing practice rooted in ancient Ayurveda and Siddha traditions. It is considered the therapeutic counterpart of Kalaripayattu, focusing on restoring balance, strength and overall well being through natural healing methods. The treatment center is supported by experienced Ayurvedic doctors and trained Kalari therapists who provide personalized care using traditional herbal medicines and medicated oils prepared within the Ashram.

Therapy programs are customized based on individual health conditions and may include rejuvenation, detoxification, postpartum recovery, weight management, injury rehabilitation and lifestyle correction treatments. Each treatment plan is designed according to the guest’s needs and duration of stay. The Ashram also provides structured diet and lifestyle guidance under medical supervision to support long-term healing results.

All healing programs include comfortable accommodation and three traditional South Kerala vegetarian meals daily, prepared using fresh produce from the Ashram’s organic farm and dairy from grass-fed cows. The Ashram is surrounded by lush gardens and cultivated farmland producing fruits such as banana, mango, papaya, jackfruit and coconut ensuring a natural and sustainable living environment for guests.

3. Yoga, Meditation & Spiritual Retreats
Along with martial arts and healing therapies, the Ashram offers yoga, meditation and spiritual retreat programs aimed at improving mental clarity, emotional balance and inner peace. These practices are integrated into daily life at the Ashram helping visitors experience holistic wellness and spiritual growth in a calm natural setting.

4. Anjaneya Swami Temple (Lord Hanuman Temple)
The Ashram also houses a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman which serves as the spiritual center of the campus. Daily rituals, chanting sessions, pujas and monthly homams are conducted regularly creating a peaceful and devotional atmosphere. The temple is open to all visitors and serves as a place of worship reflection and spiritual connection for both residents and guests of the Ashram.