At 82, Indiaโs Fearless Grandmother Wields Her Sword with Unmatched Strength
An 82-year-old woman, Meenakshi Raghavan, is making waves as possibly the oldest practitioner and teacher of Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art. Despite her age, she shows no signs of slowing down, stating, โIโll probably practise Kalari until the day I die.โ This dedication to the art form, which has roots dating back over 3,000 years in Kerala, highlights not only her commitment but also the cultural significance of Kalaripayattu in India.
Meenakshi Ammaโs Journey in Kalaripayattu
Known affectionately as Meenakshi Amma, she resides in Vadakara, Kerala, a town rich in Kalaripayattu history. The area is home to legendary figures in the martial art, such as Unniyarcha and Thacholi Othenan. Meenakshi Amma runs her own Kalari school, established by her husband in 1950, where she teaches approximately 50 students daily. Her schedule is rigorous, with classes starting at 5 a.m. and continuing until noon. She emphasizes the importance of discipline, strength, and self-defense in her teachings, ensuring that her students grasp the multifaceted nature of Kalaripayattu.
Meenakshi Ammaโs family is also deeply involved in the martial art. She trained her four children in Kalaripayattu from a young age, instilling in them the same passion she has for the discipline. Her commitment to teaching and preserving the art form is evident in her daily interactions with students, who regard her with deep respect and admiration.
The Structure and Philosophy of Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is structured into four distinct stages, each requiring patience and dedication. The training begins with meypattu, which involves an oil massage and exercises to prepare the body. After about two years, students progress to kolthari, focusing on stick fighting, followed by angathari, which involves weapon combat. The final stage, verumkai, is the pinnacle of Kalaripayattu, emphasizing unarmed combat. Mastery of the art typically takes around five years.
The martial art is not only about physical combat; it also encompasses mental discipline and self-control. According to Vinod Kadangal, another Kalaripayattu instructor, the principles of Kalaripayattu have influenced other martial arts, including Kung Fu. Historical accounts suggest that Bodhidharma, an Indian monk, introduced these techniques to the Shaolin monks in China, further highlighting Kalaripayattuโs significance in the global martial arts landscape.
Meenakshi Ammaโs Legacy and Community Impact
Meenakshi Ammaโs journey in Kalaripayattu began at the age of seven, when her guru recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue the art. Unlike many girls of her time, she was supported by her father to continue her training into her late teens. After marrying her guru, Raghavan, the couple dedicated their lives to teaching Kalaripayattu, often offering lessons to underprivileged children for free.
Following Raghavanโs passing in 2007, Meenakshi Amma took over the school, continuing their legacy. She hopes to pass the school on to her eldest son, Sanjeev, who is also an instructor. Despite her age, she remains a local celebrity, frequently receiving invitations to community events and ceremonies. Her students express profound admiration for her, noting her ability to balance affection with strict discipline.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Meenakshi Ammaโs influence extends beyond her immediate students. Many of her former pupils have established their own Kalaripayattu schools across Kerala, a testament to her impact on the martial art community. She is seen as a role model, particularly for women, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing oneโs passion. Her dedication to Kalaripayattu serves as an inspiration, showcasing the art formโs rich heritage and its importance in fostering discipline and resilience among practitioners.
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