Teacher Training Courses

Train in Tradition to the Future

Dive into the ancient world of Kalaripayattu with our in-depth Teacher Training Course. This program is your gateway to mastering the revered techniques, philosophies and physical disciplines of one of the oldest martial arts. But it’s more than just personal achievement; you’re preparing to be a torchbearer of this esteemed tradition, ready to instruct and inspire the future warriors.

Our Kalaripayattu Teacher Training is an intensive journey, designed to provide participants with profound knowledge of the art form, including the essential Thari commands and techniques. Emulating the traditional Gurukulam system, this 7-month residential course creates a unique environment of shared living between students and the guru, fostering deep learning and connection to the practice. The curriculum predominantly focuses on the Northern (Vadakkan) style of Kalaripayattu.

As part of the training, you’ll gain hands-on teaching experience, an integral aspect of the course that hones your abilities to guide and teach with confidence. This journey isn’t just about learning; it’s about becoming a conduit for this ancient knowledge, ready to pass it on with dedication and expertise.

TTC Programs - Fees + Curriculum

Kalari TTC

7 Months
27,000* per month
  • Kalari Warm-Up + Vandanam-2 + Vadivu
  • Kaalukal - 12
  • Chuvadu - 3 + Chumattadi - 3
  • Meypayattu - 4 + Kaikuthipayattu
  • Angachuvadu - 1
  • Vettum Thancham - 2
  • Neduvadi-4 + Cheruvadi-2
  • Otta Introdcution
  • Sword Swinging + Sword & Shield
Primary

Kalari Advanced TTC

5 Months
29,000* per month
  • Kalari TTC +
  • Dagger
  • Knife
  • Urumi Introduction
  • Kizhi (Theory & Practical)
  • Medicinal Bandaging (Theory & Practical)
  • Chavuti Uzichil (Theory & Practical)
Add-on
    • ❈ Advanced TTC is only available for students who finished Kalari TTC.
    • ❈ Each of the terms mentioned above originates from traditional Kalari practices. For a detailed explanation of each term, please refer to our blogs section.
    • ❈ The training classes follow a schedule of two sessions every day, one in the morning and the other in the evening, both starting at 5:30 sharp. The duration of each class ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the practitioner’s skill level.
    • ❈ Please note that at the time of admission, you are required to pay a minimum of one month’s fee. An initial amount of ₹3,000 must be paid during booking, which is non-refundable, with the remaining balance due upon arrival and check-in.
    • ❈ There are other types of accommodation options available apart from shared dormitories.

Features

Kalaripayattu

Our program guides you through the dynamic sequences of Kaalukal, which improves your strength and stamina. You’ll learn the intricate Chuvadugal, Meipayattu and Vadivukal for developing physical control and enhancing agility. Also, train in Kolthari and Angathari to learn to wield weapons with precision.

Kalari Chikitsa

To further your understanding of the healing aspect of Kalaripayattu, we provide training in Kalari Chikitsa. You’ll gain expertise in Kalari Leg Massage, promoting healing and vitality and learn Kizhi to treat inflammation using herbs and medicinal bandage.

Karma Yoga

Part of your journey with us involves Karma Yoga, where you will engage in Ashram Volunteering Activities, fostering a spirit of selfless service. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in teaching local classes, sharing the wisdom of Kalaripayattu with the community.

Meditation

The program includes a significant focus on meditation, helping you harness the power of Pranayama, the control of breath to balance energy and Kumbaka, the practise to hold the breath.

Why Kalari TTC at Athmakalari?

Learn In Depth

This program takes you beyond the mere physical aspect of martial arts, exploring the spiritual insight, and mental discipline that constitute the core of Kalaripayattu. The program aims to help you understand the integral connection between mind, body and spirit, as envisioned by this ancient martial art.

Our program is taught by expert practitioners who are deeply passionate about preserving and propagating the art, imbibing their teaching with their extensive knowledge and personal experiences. This gives you an authentic and comprehensive understanding of Kalaripayattu.

Our Kalaripayattu TTC program equips you with the skills to confidently impart the wisdom of this ancient art form to others. Through rigorous practical training and comprehensive theoretical learning, you will become adept at the various techniques, forms and teachings of Kalaripayattu.

Few words from our passed out Teacher

"Participating in the Kalaripayattu TTC was a truly transformative experience. The course went beyond physical training, delving into the spiritual dimensions of this ancient martial art. The instructors were deeply knowledgeable and passionately committed to preserving the authenticity of Kalaripayattu. I gained not just physical strength and agility but also a deeper sense of self-awareness and mental discipline. Furthermore, the course prepared me well to share this profound wisdom with others, equipping me with effective teaching skills. I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking a holistic journey into the heart of martial arts."

Facilities

• We offer a variety of comfortable accommodation options, each designed to support your training experience. With nourishing South Indian vegetarian meals provided daily, you’ll enjoy a healthy, balanced diet during your stay. Choose from shared dorms, single huts, deluxe rooms, or 1BHK options to suit your needs.
• Our meals are served thrice a day. The cuisine is a nutritious vegetarian diet that emphasizes seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible.
• Trainees will have access to Wi-Fi.
• Day trips to places of interest are arranged occasionally.

Rules & Guidelines

• Applicants must be 18 years of age or above.
• Students are expected to complete all payments within the first week of the course.
• Students are required to follow Ashram’s daily schedule.
• 95% attendance is mandatory to issue TTC certificate.
• Use of tobacco, alcohol, non-prescription drugs and non-vegetarian food are NOT allowed while staying at the ashram.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I gain complete knowledge of Kalari through the TTC Course?

Kalari is an extensive and profound art and it takes multiple decades to master the art. Our TTC program is specifically designed to nurture and develop proficient teachers in this field, covering essential knowledge and skills.

No, the TTC begins with foundational concepts and progressively advances, making it accessible to beginners as well as those with some experience.

Yes, participants who successfully complete the course will be awarded a certificate.

Absolutely. The certification you receive enables you to independently start and operate your own Kalari center.

The initial 7 months of TTC focus on teaching techniques. For those interested in learning about basic and common treatments, we offer an Advanced TTC of additional 5 months that includes practical sessions on treatments.

The TTC Courses cover a variety of weapons including different types of sticks, the Otta (curved stick resembling a tusk), dagger, knife, sword & shield, and the Urumi (flexible sword).

While we recommend completing the course in one continuous period for the best learning experience, we understand that there may be unavoidable circumstances requiring breaks. It’s mandatory to complete the full 7 months to earn your certification, even if that means extending the course duration to account for breaks. For short absences of 1 or 2 weeks, where the room cannot be allocated to others, room fees will still apply for the period of absence.

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