Gurukkal
Kottakkal Kanaran Gurukkal
Kottakkal Kanaran Gurukkal was a towering figure in the history of Kalarippayattu, especially revered for his expertise in the Northern Style (Vadakkan Sampradayam). A master not only of martial techniques but also of Marmashastra (the science of vital points), his knowledge extended beyond combat into the realm of healing, making him both a feared warrior and a respected healer.
In a remarkable demonstration of his dedication, Kottakkal Kanaran Gurukkal, in his forties, sold more than 150 acres of his ancestral land and invested all his wealth into mastering Kalarippayattu. His commitment to learning and preserving this ancient art form was unparalleled. At the age of 69, he took Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal as his disciple, and together, these two masters were instrumental in reviving Kalarippayattu after nearly a century and a half of suppression under the British ban.
Kottakkal Kanaran Gurukkal’s teachings emphasized discipline, agility, and unwavering adherence to traditional techniques. His tireless efforts to preserve the integrity of Kalarippayattu laid the foundation for its resurgence. His legacy continues to inspire practitioners, ensuring that the art form thrives with the same vigor and authenticity today.
Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal
Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal was a distinguished figure known for his unwavering dedication to Kalarippayattu, particularly in preserving the traditional Northern Style (Vadakkan Sampradayam). As the leading force behind CVN Kalaries, he was steadfast in maintaining the purity of Kalarippayattu, ensuring that the art form was passed down in its most authentic form.
Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal’s expertise was not limited to martial prowess; he was also a master of Marmashastra (the study of vital points), which made him an authority in both combat and traditional healing practices. His holistic approach to teaching emphasized discipline, mental fortitude, and the harmonious development of mind, body, and spirit.
Beyond the physical techniques of Kalarippayattu, he instilled in his students the deeper spiritual and cultural values that are integral to the practice. His commitment to preserving these traditions ensured that his students not only became skilled martial artists but also embraced the philosophical and ethical dimensions of the art. Through his profound influence, Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal played a vital role in revitalizing Kalarippayattu and passing on its timeless wisdom to future generations.
Pathriyil Gopalan Gurukkal
Pathriyil Gopalan Gurukkal, a dedicated disciple of Veerasree C.V. Narayanan Nair Gurukkal, was a revered master of Kalarippayattu, deeply respected for his profound understanding of its techniques and underlying philosophies. Gopalan Gurukkal’s training methods were known for their emphasis on physical conditioning, agility, and strategic combat, empowering students to excel in both armed and unarmed forms of the art.
Renowned for his ability to adapt Kalarippayattu to modern contexts while staying true to its traditional roots, he served as a vital link between the ancient practices and contemporary applications. His teachings struck a perfect balance, ensuring the art’s evolution without compromising its essence. His relentless dedication to Kalarippayattu was not just about preserving techniques but also about passing on a rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Through his efforts, Pathriyil Gopalan Gurukkal ensured that future generations could continue to benefit from the timeless wisdom and physical mastery that Kalarippayattu offers.
Chanthappan Gurukkal
Chanthappan Gurukkal, a disciple of Pathriyil Gopalan Gurukkal and uncle to Malabar Vasudevan Gurukkal, was a highly respected master who made significant contributions to the Northern Style of Kalarippayattu. Known for his disciplined and rigorous training methods, he was a firm believer in the holistic power of Kalari Chikitsa (Kalari healing). Chanthappan Gurukkal masterfully blended the art of combat with traditional Kalari healing practices, making his kalari not just a training ground for warriors but also a center for holistic well-being.
His unique approach emphasized the therapeutic aspects of Kalarippayattu, earning him admiration beyond the circle of martial artists, as he attracted those interested in physical and spiritual health. Under his guidance, students underwent intense physical training while also learning deeper values such as patience, respect, and resilience. Chanthappan Gurukkal’s legacy endures through the countless students who benefited from his teachings, which combined martial discipline with the timeless wisdom of traditional healing.
Malabar P. Vasudevan Gurukkal
Malabar P. Vasudevan Gurukkal, who trained under both Pathriyil Gopalan Gurukkal and Chanthappan Gurukkal, is a revered master whose dedication to the art of Kalarippayattu has made his name synonymous with the Malabar Vasudevan Gurukkal Tradition (MVG) CVN Kalaries**. Under his leadership, this tradition has expanded to include 25 centers across Kerala, playing a significant role in the revival and continuation of the Northern Style (Vadakkan Sampradayam).
Vasudevan Gurukkal is deeply committed to preserving the original techniques and philosophies of Kalarippayattu without any dilution, ensuring that the authentic practices are upheld. His teachings emphasize the holistic integration of mind, body, and spirit, focusing on the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of the art. Beyond mere combat training, he instils in his students a profound respect for the heritage and values of Kalarippayattu, cultivating not just skilled fighters but individuals who embody the art’s rich cultural legacy.
Through his relentless efforts, Malabar Vasudevan Gurukkal has ensured that Kalarippayattu remains a living, breathing tradition that continues to thrive in the modern era, inspiring new generations to connect with the ancient wisdom and discipline of this martial art..
