Information About

Guruttara





INITIATION CEREMONY IN A KALARI


At the age of seven, on an auspicious day or on the opening day of the new session, a novice is admitted to the Kalari in the presence of the Gurukkal (master) or a senior student, and directed to place his right foot first across the threshold. The student touches the ground with the right hand and then his forehead, as a sign of respect. He is then led to the Guruttara to repeat his act of worship. He then has to offer some money in folded betel leaves as dakshina (tuition fee) for the master and bow and prostrate himself before the latter, and touch his legs, as a sign of submission. The guru then places his hands on the pupil’s head, blesses him and prays for him. This worship; touching the ground, Poottara , Guruttara and the guru’s feet, is to be repeated everyday. It symbolizes a complete submission to and acceptance of the Kalari Deities , Kalari master, and the rules and discipline of the art.


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