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Meenakshi Raghavan: The Nonagenarian Guardian of Kalaripayattu
At 82 years young, Meenakshi Raghavan, a distinguished instructor of the ancient Indian martial art Kalaripayattu, demonstrates unwavering commitment, dismissing any notions of retirement. Widely recognized as potentially the oldest woman globally practicing and teaching this venerable discipline, Meenakshi Amma, as she is affectionately known, embodies the enduring spirit of this traditional combat form.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Kalaripayattu
“I will likely continue practicing Kalari until my final days,” states Meenakshi Raghavan, a testament to her lifelong dedication. Kalaripayattu, derived from ‘kalari’ meaning battleground and ‘payattu’ signifying fight, is rooted in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Believed to have originated over 3,000 years ago, it is revered as India’s most ancient martial art tradition.
More Than Just Combat: Discipline and Self-Defense
Beyond its combat applications, Kalaripayattu serves as a holistic discipline, fostering mental fortitude, physical strength, and essential self-defense capabilities. This martial art is not merely about fighting; it is a comprehensive system for personal development and empowerment.
Meenakshi Amma: A Respected Figure in Vadakara
In Vadakara, Kerala, Meenakshi Raghavan is revered as Meenakshi Amma – ‘Amma’ translating to mother in Malayalam. This town holds historical significance in Kalaripayattu, being the stomping ground of legendary figures like Unniyarcha, Aromal Chekavar, and Thacholi Othenan, alongside Meenakshi Amma.
Running the Kalari: A Daily Commitment
While occasionally demonstrating her skills in other cities, Meenakshi Amma primarily focuses on managing her Kalari school. Founded by her spouse in 1950, her school demands a rigorous daily schedule, with classes commencing at five in the morning and extending until noon.
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“I instruct approximately 50 students each day. My own four children received training in this martial art from both my husband and myself, commencing their education at the age of six,” she recounts.
The Four Stages of Kalaripayattu Training
Kalaripayattu training is structured into four progressive stages, demanding considerable patience and perseverance:
Meypattu: Foundational Body Conditioning
The initial phase, Meypattu, involves therapeutic oil massages and targeted exercises designed to prepare the body for the rigors of Kalaripayattu.
Kolthari: Mastering Stick Fighting
After approximately two years of Meypattu, students advance to Kolthari, focusing on techniques and strategies for stick-based combat.
Angathari: Advanced Weaponry Skills
Angathari is the subsequent stage, introducing students to weapon-based combat, enhancing their prowess with various traditional weapons.
Verumkai: Unarmed Combat Mastery
Verumkai represents the apex of Kalaripayattu training, emphasizing unarmed combat techniques and requiring up to five years of dedicated study to achieve proficiency.
Kalaripayattu’s Global Influence: The Shaolin Connection
According to Kalari instructor Vinod Kadangal, Kalaripayattu‘s principles, including unique breathing techniques and Marmashastra (stimulating key energy points), are believed to have influenced the development of Kung Fu. Historical narratives suggest that in the 6th Century, Indian Buddhist monk Bodhidharma disseminated these techniques to Shaolin monks, contributing to the genesis of the renowned Chinese martial art.
A Childhood Initiation into the Kalari
Meenakshi Amma vividly recalls her inaugural experience in a Kalari, the distinctive red-earth arena for practice, 75 years prior.
“At seven years old, recognized for my dancing aptitude, my guru, VP Raghavan, approached my father. He proposed that I learn Kalaripayattu, highlighting the shared requirement of flexibility between dance and this martial art,” she explains.
Overcoming Caste Barriers in Kalaripayattu Education
Originating from Kerala’s Thiyya community, Meenakshi Amma’s guru, aged 15 at the time, and his brothers established their own Kalaripayattu school after facing discriminatory denial of admission elsewhere due to their perceived lower social caste.
Challenging Gender Norms in Martial Arts
“During that era, there was no gender bias concerning girls enrolling in Kalari – physical education was, in fact, mandated in all Kerala schools. However, societal expectations dictated that girls should discontinue training upon reaching puberty,” she recounts.
Defying these norms, Meenakshi Amma’s father championed her continued training into her late teens. At 17, she married Raghavan, and together, they dedicated their lives to training countless students, often offering instruction without charge.
Sustaining the Tradition Through Dedication and Community Support
“Many students at that time originated from impoverished backgrounds. The sole monetary offering my husband accepted was in the form of dakshina, a traditional tribute to the teacher,” she elaborates.
Donations formed the financial bedrock of the school, supplemented by Raghavan’s subsequent teaching position for additional income. Following his passing in 2007, Meenakshi Amma formally assumed leadership of the Kalari.
Succession and Legacy: Passing the Torch
While presently showing no inclination towards retirement, Meenakshi Amma anticipates transferring the school’s stewardship to her eldest son, Sanjeev, in the future.
Sanjeev, aged 62 and also an instructor at the school, acknowledges his privilege in learning from his mother, whom he considers his most formidable opponent, despite being her son.
Local Icon and Community Recognition
Meenakshi Amma’s stature extends beyond the Kalari; she is a celebrated figure in her community. During an interview, local politicians visited to solicit her presence at an upcoming awards ceremony, underscoring her esteemed position.
“Amma, your presence would greatly honor us,” one politician conveyed with reverence.
“I appreciate the invitation and will be there,” she graciously responded.
Inspiration and Discipline: The Meenakshi Amma Influence
Her students express profound admiration for Meenakshi Amma. Numerous alumni have established their own Kalari schools throughout the state, a source of immense pride for her.
“She embodies inspiration for women everywhere – an exceptional individual who balances genuine warmth and affection for her students with unwavering discipline in the Kalari,” remarks KF Thomas, a former student, encapsulating the essence of Meenakshi Amma’s legacy.