Where Tradition Moves
Learn Kalaripayattu, Kerala's ancient martial art, in the true spirit of the gurukulam.
More Than a Martial Art
Kalaripayattu is one of the world's oldest martial traditions, born on the soil of Kerala. At Richard Stando Kalari Gurukulam, we teach it the way it was meant to be learned: with patience, respect and a teacher who walks beside you.
Traditional Training
Rooted in the time-honoured practices of Kalaripayattu.
Guided by a Gurukkal
Learn directly under the guidance of Bethel Samji Gurukkal.
Strength of Body & Mind
Build fitness, focus, flexibility and self-confidence.
A Disciplined Community
Train in an atmosphere of respect, humility and belonging.
What We Teach
The Four Stages of Kalaripayattu
Stage 1
Meythari
Body Conditioning
Flexibility, balance, stances (vadivu), kicks, and fluid animal postures that form the foundation of all Kalari movement.
Stage 2
Kolthari
Wooden Weapons
Training with long sticks (kettukari), short sticks (cheruvadi), and curved wooden weapons (otta).
Stage 3
Angathari
Metal Weapons
Mastery of classical combat weapons including the dagger, sword & shield, spear, and the flexible whip-sword (urumi).
Stage 4
Verumkai
Unarmed Combat & Self-Defence
Bare-hand defensive techniques, locks, counters, and pressure point awareness.
Our Story
Richard Stando Kalari Gurukulam began on 7 July 2024 with a simple belief: that Kalaripayattu is not only a way to fight, but a way to live. Founded by Bethel Samji Gurukkal, the Gurukulam opened its doors to everyone willing to learn: children discovering confidence, young people searching for focus, and adults seeking strength and balance.
Every session begins the way a kalari always has, with a salutation to the earth, to the teacher and to the tradition, before a single step is taken. Here, progress is measured not in how hard you strike, but in how steady your mind becomes.
We are a young Gurukulam with an old soul, carrying a centuries-old art forward with discipline, humility and heart.
Our Philosophy
Our training rests on four principles.
Discipline
Consistent practice shapes character as much as the body.
Respect
For the teacher, the tradition, the kalari and one another.
Balance
Strength, flexibility and calm, in body, mind and breath.
Community
We grow together, as one Gurukulam.
"Where the body learns discipline and the mind learns stillness."
Life at the Gurukulam
Moments from our training, celebrations and community.
Meet the Team
The people who guide and nurture the Gurukulam.
Founder
Bethel Samji Gurukkal
Founder and guiding master of the Gurukulam, dedicated to teaching Kalaripayattu with discipline and compassion.
L. Selvanose
Patron
Patron of the Gurukulam, supporting its vision and growth.
Adv. Sanoj
Administrator & Legal Advisor
Oversees administration and legal matters, keeping the Gurukulam on firm footing.
Deepa Suresh, MSW
Principal
Leads the academy's day-to-day functioning with care, structure and a commitment to every student's wellbeing.
What Our Students and Parents Say
Our community's words say it best. Read their experiences on Google.
Richard Stando Kalari Gurukulam on Google
Frequently Asked Questions
Begin Your Journey
Step onto the kalari and discover what steady practice can build.
Join UsBegin Your Journey
Visit the Gurukulam or send us a message. We'd love to hear from you.
Richard Stando Kalari Gurukulam
Bethel hills, Paramugal, Kallayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Keralam 695043
+91 80862 08112