Kalari Salutation (Poothara Vandanam)
The Kalari Salutation, known as Poothara Vandanam, is a traditional greeting integral to the practice of Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art that originates from Kerala. This salutation signifies respect and reverence, serving as a means to honor the teacher, the training space, and the art itself. It is typically performed at both the beginning and end of a training session, symbolizing the practitioner’s gratitude and dedication to the discipline. Through Poothara Vandanam, practitioners forge a connection with the rich cultural heritage of Kalaripayattu, highlighting the significance humility and respect throughout their martial journey.
Kalari Salutation Steps
The Kalari salutation (Kalari Vandana) is an important ritual in Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala, India. It is a respectful gesture performed at the beginning and end of training sessions to honor the teacher (Guru), the martial art space (Kalari), and the divine forces associated with the practice.
Elements of Kalari Salutation:
1. Honoring the Kalari and Earth (Bhoomi Vandana): Practitioners bow to the floor, paying respect to the sacred training space and the earth for supporting their practice.
2. Saluting the Deities: The Kalari often has a poothara (a sacred altar) dedicated to deities or spiritual forces. Salutations are offered towards this altar, seeking blessings for strength and protection.
3. Respecting the Guru: Practitioners show respect to their Guru or teacher, who is considered the guiding force in mastering the art.
4. Acknowledging Fellow Practitioners: • Saluting fellow students fosters
Acharya Binish V Nair
Acharya Binish Vasudevan Nair is renowned as one of the few masters of Kalaripayattu worldwide, known for preserving this ancient martial art tradition.
There are only a handful of kalaripayattu masters worldwide, and he is among them.
His most significant achievement is preserving this ancient Indian tradition from extinction.
His mission today is to pass on this ancient Indian tradition to future generations, ensuring it is accessible to international students, especially those studying martial arts, yoga, and Ayurveda.
To fulfill his mission, he resides in Germany with the goal of training numerous Kalaripayattu instructors throughout the country.