Indian Knowledge Systems Center
Mission & Vision
IKS Centre for Kalaripayattu & Siddhar Tradition Agasthyam Kalari.
Agasthyam Kalari is one among the first 13 Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centres recognized by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Rooted in a 3000-year-old Kalaripayattu tradition, the centre is a living abode of authentic martial knowledge, Kalari healing systems, and Siddhar wisdom, preserved through an unbroken lineage.
A living tradition. A civilizational science. A warrior’s path.
Lineage & Leadership
Gurukkal S. Mahesh – Principal Investigator
A fifth-generation Gurukkal, Gurukkal S. Mahesh is the custodian of a 129-year-old Kalari lineage. His expertise spans Southern Kalaripayattu, marma science, Kalari chikitsa, and martial philosophy. Under his leadership, Kalari is preserved as a living, embodied knowledge system, not merely a physical practice.
Dr. Arun Surendran – Co-Principal Investigator
Principal, Trinity College of Engineering, Dr. Arun Surendran provides academic leadership and research integration, ensuring methodological rigor and institutional alignment with national knowledge frameworks.