About Kalari Gurukulam

Our Story, Lineage & Cultural Journey

Our Story & Lineage

Kalari Gurukulam traces its roots to the timeless martial tradition of Kalaripayattu. We are committed to transmitting this living lineage with authenticity, blending physical training, healing practices, and philosophical wisdom. Our approach ensures that every student connects with the warrior’s discipline, the healer’s sensitivity, and the seeker’s awareness.

Bangalore Center (1999)

Founded in 1999, the Bangalore center has become a hub for authentic training and community outreach. Thousands of students have walked through our doors, discovering not just martial skill but also self-confidence, cultural identity, and resilience. This center continues to serve as the heart of our Gurukulam family.

Community Workshops

Kalari Gurukulam regularly conducts short-term workshops in schools, colleges, and social organizations. These programs empower youth with self-defense, confidence, and awareness. They also foster cultural appreciation, helping new generations connect to India’s ancient martial heritage.

Media & Publications

Our work has been featured in documentaries, articles, and films that showcase Kalaripayattu’s relevance today. From national media coverage to international collaborations, Kalari Gurukulam continues to contribute to the global recognition of this timeless art form.

Photo Gallery

Kalari Gurukulam photo 12 — Kalari Moment 12

Kalari Gurukulam photo 13 — Kalari Moment 13

Kalari Gurukulam photo 14 — Kalari Moment 14

Kalari Gurukulam photo 15 — Kalari Moment 15

Kalari Gurukulam photo 16 — Kalari Moment 16

Kalari Gurukulam photo 17 — Kalari Moment 17

About the Founder – Ranjan Mullaratt

Ranjan Mullaratt, Founder of Kalari Gurukulam

Ranjan Mullaratt – a Martial Artist, Actor, Director, and Writer – is the visionary founder of Kalari Gurukulam Research and Training Centre. He is also the director and writer of the award-winning film “Look Back Beyond the Blades”, author of “Kalaripayattu: Ancient Secrets to Modern Living”, and producer of the film “Dhehi” starring Kishore Kumar.

A B.Sc. graduate, Ranjan trained under the legendary P.K. Balan Gurukkal of Kerala, mastering Kalaripayattu. In 1999, he established the Kalari Academy of Performing Arts (KAPA) in Bangalore, and later, in 2010, founded the Kalari Gurukulam Society to preserve and promote this 3,000-year-old martial tradition.

Kalari Gurukulam – A Legacy of Strength & Tradition

Under his guidance, Kalari Gurukulam has grown into a global institution dedicated to training, performing, and spreading the wisdom of Kalaripayattu worldwide. Through martial practice, cinema, and healing, Ranjan has inspired a new generation of practitioners and brought Kalaripayattu to the international stage.

Notable Achievements

Founder & Chief Instructor of Kalari Gurukulam
Director & Writer of the award-winning film “Look Back Beyond the Blades”
Author of “Kalaripayattu: Ancient Secrets to Modern Living”
A key figure in reviving and popularizing Kalaripayattu globally

Global Performances & Cultural Outreach

Represented India at the Festival Latitudes Vilette Lude de Sud (France)
Showcased Kalaripayattu at the Olympic Council of Asia (Kuwait)
Performed at cultural festivals:
- Hampi Festival
- Mysore Dasara Festival
- Drishti Dance Festival (Bangalore)
- Konark Festival (Odisha)
- Orissa Festival
Choreographed Kalaripayattu sequences for films including PS2, Delhi 6, Magadheera, and more
Award-winning director of “Look Back Beyond The Blades” – Best Director, Bangkok International Film Festival (2024)

Awards & Recognitions

Swami Vivekananda & Sister Margaret Award (2016) – for contributions to Kalaripayattu
Best Director – “Look Back Beyond The Blades”, Bangkok International Film Festival (2024)

Contributions to Performing Arts & Education

Ranjan has seamlessly integrated Kalaripayattu into theatre, cinema, and education:

Choreographed fight sequences for films like PS2, Delhi 6, Magadheera, Anthu Inthu Preethi Bandhu, Thamas
Performed in stage plays such as M.S. Sathyu’s “Smashana Kurukshetra” and “Kurukshetra Se Kargil Tak”
Featured in commercials including Sony Bravia and Chyawanprash with Sourav Ganguly
Trained personalities like Puneeth Rajkumar, Sri Murali, Vijay Raghavendra, Bhavana, and Saurav Ganguly
Authored “Kalari Margam: Ancient Secrets to Modern Living” and produced instructional DVDs

A Legacy of Excellence

Through relentless dedication, Ranjan Mullaratt has established himself as a global ambassador of Kalaripayattu. By integrating martial training with education, performance, and healing, he ensures this 3,000-year-old art thrives in modern times. His journey continues to inspire thousands worldwide.