Meet Our Gurukkal - T. Sudhakaran Gurukkal
A Gurukkal is both a father figure and a respected guru (teacher) to the disciples. At CVN Kalari, our esteemed Gurukkal, T. Sudhakaran Gurukkal, embodies this profound role.
Biography and Achievements
T. Sudhakaran Gurukkal began his journey in Kalaripayattu in 1968 and started participating in Kalaripayattu Demonstrations in 1969. He diligently completed his Kalaripayattu study in 1975 and specialized in Marma treatment by 1978. Since 1979, he has been imparting his extensive knowledge through Kalaripayattu training.
His contributions to the art have taken him globally. He conducted Kalaripayattu demonstrations in England, Italy, France, Spain & Switzerland in 1982, then USSR in 1986, and the USA in 1995.
He has graced numerous prestigious National and International Events including: Indian Festivals and conventions overseas, Asiad '82, National Games, SAF Games, Miss World Contest, National Martial Arts Festival, National Bharathanatyam Festival, Apna Uthsav, and many more.
Gurukkal's expertise extends to the performing arts, having worked for a number of Cinema, Television, and Dramas, some of which have secured National Awards.
Presently, he continues his dedicated career as a Kalarippayat Gurukkal, constantly engaged in research on Kalaripayattu. He is also an acknowledged Kalari Marma Physician.
Notably, he served as the instructor of the first Martial Arts Training Centre run by the government of Kerala.
His influence in the Kalaripayattu community is significant; he has been a jury member for the Kerala State Kalaripayattu Championship – the topmost competition in Kalaripayattu – since 1985. He also holds the position of the State Vice-President of the Kerala Kalarippayat Association.