At 74 years of age Meenakshi Gurukkul defies the ageing
process as well as all that is considered to be socially acceptable, as the
oldest female champion of the ancient marital arts of Kerala – Kalaripayattu.
As she crouches low with her sword clasped in one hand and her eyes unblinking,
she is an awe-inspiring vision of poise.
Gurukkul has been tirelessly practicing, training and
teaching Kalaripayattu - one of the oldest forms of self-defense, and a
strenuous and deadly physical fighting system in the world – for nearly 68
years.
Around 150 students learn Kalaripayattu in her school,
Kadathanadan Kalari Sangam, in a tiny hamlet in Vadakara near Calicut, Kerala.
Techniques have been passed down through generations, written in a palm
‘booklet’, delicate with age. When the school term is over, Meenakshi takes
part in stage performances too. Such a brilliant definition of #ActiveAgeing.
This inspiring lady, who only seems to grow younger with
age, is living proof that age is but a number.
Meenakshi mam is quite an inspiration for all of us on how being physically active can help defy the aging process. Strong muscles maintain the elasticity of the skin which helps slow down the ageing process.
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