In brief
At 82, Meenakshi Raghavan remains dedicated to Kalaripayattu, reinforcing its significance in eliminating gender bias in martial arts education, and inspiring countless students along the way.
In the lush state of Kerala, 82-year-old Meenakshi Raghavan stands as a potent symbol of perseverance in the realm of Kalaripayattu—the oldest martial art in India. Widely celebrated as one of the oldest practitioners of this art form, she is affectionately known as Meenakshi Amma and passionately affirms her commitment to the discipline, stating, “I’ll probably practise Kalari until the day I die.”Originating over 3,000 years ago, Kalaripayattu not only equips individuals with self-defense skills but also instills essential values like discipline and physical fitness. Meenakshi Amma operates a Kalari school started by her husband in 1950, where she continues to teach daily, instructing approximately 50 students a day in the intricate techniques of the martial art.Her training regimen is structured over four levels, commencing with meypattu—an oil massage and physical conditioning—before navigating through stick fighting (kolthari), weapon combat (angathari), and culminating in unarmed combat (verumkai). Mastery of Kalaripayattu typically takes around five years, emphasizing physical and mental conditioning.Meenakshi Amma's journey in Kalaripayattu began at age seven when her guru recognized her talent for both dance and martial arts, guiding her to explore this traditional practice. Despite societal norms that often limited opportunities for women, her family, particularly her encouraging father, supported her training long past the age when many girls were expected to cease such physical endeavors.Throughout her storied career, Meenakshi Amma has trained hundreds, often without charge, exemplifying her dedication to making Kalaripayattu accessible. After her husband passed away in 2007, she took over the reins of the school, nurturing the next generation of warriors, including her son Sanjeev, who acknowledges her as his toughest opponent and a significant role model.A revered figure in her community, she regularly attracts the attention of local politicians and admirers alike, with many celebrating her as a potent symbol of strength and a trailblazer for women in martial arts. Former students express their admiration, highlighting her unique balance of love and discipline as pivotal to their training. Meenakshi Amma her journey epitomizes the intersection of tradition and empowerment, showcasing the profound impact one individual can have on their community and the broader narrative of women's roles in martial arts.
