The Gurukulam: Traditional Kerala Percussion Training
We preserve the authentic rhythm of Kerala’s temple arts. Join our Gurukulam in Bengaluru to learn the Chenda, Ilathaalam, and more through our disciplined Saadhakam method.
Admissions are open for our new Chenda Kalari batch at the Ramamurthy Nagar branch. This video shows students of all ages engaged in 'Saadhakam', the disciplined practice that forms the core of our teaching.
A glimpse into a practice session where our students come together to perfect their craft. The collective energy in the room is a testament to their shared dedication to the Chenda.
Our Chenda classes in Bengaluru bring together a diverse group of students. Here you can see them learning together, building a community around the shared love for Kerala's temple arts.
Another view of a Chenda class at our academy in Bangalore. We believe in living the tradition and culture, and it starts right here in our Kalari.
Students deeply focused during a 'Saadhakam' session at our academy. This practice on wooden blocks is essential for mastering the complex rhythms of the Chenda.
A look inside our Panchavadhyam Maddhalam class. Our Gurukulam teaches the full range of temple instruments, ensuring the entire tradition is passed on.
The future artists of Kalavadhyam honing their skills. This close-up shows our young students practicing on stone blocks, a crucial step in their journey to becoming percussionists.
About this collection
We believe in building a foundation before picking up the drum. In our Kalari, every student begins with Saadhakam, the rigorous practice of rhythm patterns on wooden or stone blocks. This is not a shortcut, but the traditional way to build the muscle memory and discipline necessary to master the Chenda. You will not touch the drum until your hands and ears are ready to respect its voice.
Our Approach to Tradition
At Kalavadhyam, we operate as a Gurukulam, where the focus is on the direct transmission of knowledge from Guru to student. We avoid modern, rushed teaching methods, preferring the slow, rhythmic discipline our ancestors used.
The Curriculum
- Chenda Melam: Mastering the Panchari, Pandi, and Chembada rhythms. The sound we strive for is the simha garjjanam (lion's roar), achieved only through years of practice.
- Ilathaalam & Wind Instruments: We train students in cymbals, Kurum Kuzhal, and Kombu to provide a complete understanding of the temple ensemble.
- Sopana Sangeetham: Devotional music instruction with Edakka, focusing on traditional vocal styles.
Where We Train
We bring the authentic atmosphere of a Kerala temple to Bengaluru. Our classes are conducted in non-AC community halls or temple grounds, maintaining the traditional setting that defines our craft. You can join our weekend batches across several locations:
- Ramamurthy Nagar
- Sarjapur Road
- Vidyaranyapura
- Mysore Road
- Kumbalgodu
- TC Palya
Inclusivity
We believe this culture belongs to everyone. Our academy is open to anyone above the age of seven. We are particularly proud of our exclusive batches for ladies, providing a safe and encouraging space for women to master these powerful instruments. If you cannot attend in person, our online Gurukulam platform offers the same curriculum through live Zoom sessions and pre-recorded modules.
Kalavadhyam
We are Kalavadhyam, a family of percussionists dedicated to keeping Kerala’s temple art forms alive here in Bengaluru. For us, this is not just an academy; it is a space to honor our lineage and share the emotion of the melam. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your skill, we invite you to join our Kalari and learn with passion.
Still looking for the right percussion class?
Tell us what you want to learn and where in Bangalore.
More from Kerala Percussion Arts Classes (Gurukulam) by Kalavadhyam
More services by Kalavadhyam