They are practitioners of the Northern style of Kalari, having had rigorous training under the tutelage of Shaji John, for the last fifteen years. They have been practicing Kalaripyattu in a very systematic dedicated manner. Both of them are trained to wield advanced weapons such as dagger (kadara), sword and shield, urumi (flexible sword), and many other wooden weapons and barehand techniques.
You are a professional practicing Architect and have been a performing classical dancer for more than 2 decades. Please share the series of events that led you to take up Kalaripayattu.
Lavanyaa - I started learning Bharatanatyam at the age of 11 along with my sister. We had our first public stage performance in 1991. We were very active in the performance circle and did many thematic shows in India and abroad. My Grandfather late K.Balaram was a famous architect in Chennai. I have never met him. I had seen his buildings and a road named after him in Chennai. This was an inspiration for me to get into architecture. I got into the School of Architecture and Planning, Guindy, one of the premier institutes.
In my twenties, I felt there was so much energy in me and I wanted to learn and practice a form where there was no performance pressure. Bharatanatyam is a performing art, and Architecture is also a visual art in one sense. That is when I came across Kalaripayattu, wherein the first class made my body overflow with abundant energy. The way my body felt after every session made me continue the practice of Kalaripayattu. The emotional connection you get with the body was an added feature for me to look into the form from a deeper perspective.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
5 Healthy Dessert Recipes
To Eat Guilt-free During Festivity
Festivity Balance
With Food Choices, Workout And Fun
COUPLE YOGA For Relaxation Amidst Wedding Preparations
Couple yoga is an excellent way to bond, relax, and manage stress during the hectic phase of wedding preparations.
10 WAYS TO EMBRACE CAPRI PANTS
The best way to say goodbye to summer is with long blouses and capri pants. Capri pants are a versatile and stylish choice that can be adapted to various outfits.
SNEH RANA
Strength in Every Struggle
Fit After Bady: Nutritionist LATAA Saberwal's Weight Loss Story
In an exclusive conversation, we speak with Lataa Saberwal, a celebrated actress and nutritionist, who opens up about her journey with postpartum weight loss.
Is Your Home Baby Proof? TIP FOR PARENTS
Whether your kid is crawling, toddling, or even driving, your job to keep him/her safe from the dangers lurking at home. It becomes important to baby-proof, your home when your child starts getting mobile - and rolling counts - so think around the 6-month mark.
THE PUSH AND PULL
Routine For Improved Strength
Sunaina Roshan
A Journey of Strength And Resilience
4 Moves Perfect For A Barbell Workout
Barbell is known as the longer version of dumbbell.