Legacy of Southern Style Kalaripayattu Training
Shyni Marma Thirummu Kalaripayattu Sangham located in Neyyattinkara, Thiruvananthapuram is a respected institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the Southern style of Kalaripayattu along with traditional Kalari healing practices. Under the leadership of Babu Gurukkal, who has guided the kalari for more than three decades, the center has become a prominent destination for martial arts training and holistic wellness. Having inherited the art from his father, Keshavan Asan, Babu Gurukkal continues to uphold the values and techniques of this ancient martial tradition while inspiring new generations of practitioners.
Over the years, the kalari has trained more than 10,000 students from different age groups and backgrounds. The institution welcomes learners ranging from young children to senior citizens, emphasizing dedication, discipline and genuine interest in the art. Through regular training sessions, personalized instruction and cultural performances, Shyni Marma Thirummu Kalaripayattu Sangham plays a significant role in preserving Kerala’s martial heritage while introducing it to students and visitors from India and abroad.
Excellence in Kalaripayattu Training and Traditional Healing
Shyni Marma Thirummu Kalaripayattu Sangham is widely recognized for its commitment to excellence in Kalaripayattu training and traditional healing therapies. Under the expert guidance of Babu Gurukkal, the center offers systematic instruction in Southern style Kalaripayattu, focusing on physical fitness, flexibility, self defense techniques, discipline and mental strength. The kalari has also nurtured talented practitioners including champion athletes who have achieved recognition at district and state-level competitions reflecting the quality of training provided at the institution.
In addition to martial arts education, the center offers traditional Kalari massage and therapeutic treatments for sprains, bruises and related ailments. These treatments utilize medicated oils carefully prepared under the supervision of Babu Gurukkal, following time-honored healing traditions. The institution also contributes to the promotion of Kalaripayattu through cultural demonstrations and performances that attract both local audiences and international visitors. By combining authentic martial arts training with traditional healing practices, Shyni Marma Thirummu Kalaripayattu Sangham continues to serve as a valuable center for learning, wellness and cultural preservation.