Meenakshi Amma, a revered figure in the world of Kalaripayattu, continues to inspire students and enthusiasts at the age of 82. Affectionately known as “Amma,” meaning “mother” in the language of their state, Malayalam, she resides in Vadakara, Kerala. There, she’s been warmly welcomed as a local celebrity. It’s a powerful legacy, one that still shapes our lives, more than 75 years after her death. Completely devoted to artful and martial instruction practiced for centuries, she trains the new breed with an energy tempered by decades of focus, character and resolve.
Meenakshi Amma grew up in a family that loved martial arts. Inspired by her mother, she started practicing Kalaripayattu. Her father was a key figure in her development, urging her to seek out training in this classical medium. Meenakshi Amma honed her craft under the watchful eye of her husband, VP Raghavan. He was an acclaimed master of Kalaripayattu and opened their Kalari school in 1950. The couple created the school into a close-knit and highly regarded school, in which multitudes have learned the craft.
Meenakshi Amma teaches six classes every day, from five in the morning until noon, sharing her expertise with an average of 50 students per class. Her teaching style is a mix of tough love with honest warmth. Yet this balance has won her the fawning admiration of countless students.
“She’s an inspiration to women everywhere – a rare person who shows love and affection to her students, yet remains a strict disciplinarian when it comes to Kalari,” – KF Thomas, a former student.
Her commitment to Kalaripayattu is unwavering. Meenakshi Amma has no intention of retiring from teaching this ancient art form. She wishes that her legacy continues through her eldest son, Sanjeev. In addition, she dreams that one day he will run the Kalari school.
Though she tours for performances at times in other cities, Meenakshi Amma continues to root her work in her school and her students. That same intimate environment gives her the space to attend to their blossoming individually, cultivating serious skill along with deep respect for the tradition.
“I teach about 50 students daily. My four children were also trained [in the art form] by me and my husband. They started learning from the age of six,” – Meenakshi Amma.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Students invariably walk away feeling humbled to have been taught by such an iconic, dynamic figure. One student expressed their admiration saying, “Amma, you must grace us with your presence.”
Meenakshi Amma’s unrelenting love for Kalaripayattu shines through in her statement.
“I’ll probably practice Kalari until the day I die,” – Meenakshi Amma.
Art has always been more than a job for her. It’s a passion for life that she counts among her favorites to share with others. She truly lives by the values of perseverance, discipline and respect that Kalaripayattu stands for. With each class she teaches, she imparts not just techniques but life lessons that resonate deeply with her students.
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