Varmakalai
Varmakalai is a traditional Tamil martial and healing art practiced under the guidance of a qualified master (Aasan). It is primarily learned for self-protection during dangerous situations. The art involves controlled application—through striking, tapping, or precise touch—on vital points of the body.
The true purpose of learning Varmakalai is self-defense and self-discipline, not to boast superiority or harm others after gaining mastery.
Meaning of Varma
“வர்மமென்ற தலங்களெல்லாம் வாசித் தானம்.”
“Varma” refers to the vital points where life force (Vaasi / Pranan) resides. It is closely connected with breath, life energy, and the subtle flow of vitality within the body.
Siddhars described this life force in many symbolic ways—like a swift horse (Puravi), the measure of time, the animating force of the body, or the radiant soul (Jeevan) within.
Varma is also known by several traditional names including: Vanmam, Adakkam, Soodcham, Aruvam, Aavi, Uyir, Oli, Kaatru, Saram, Jeevan, Praanan, Vaasi, Yaamam, Kandam, Kalai, Kaalam, Suvassam, Param, Puravi, Maikkai, Moocchu, Yogam, and Vaayu.
Excellence of Varmakalai
Traditionally attributed to Agastya Siddhar of the Podhigai Hills in South India, Varmakalai integrates both martial application and therapeutic knowledge.
Historically, Varma practitioners were believed to have served in Tamil king’s warrior traditions and royal armies. The art is respected for its precision, control, and deep understanding of human anatomy and energy systems.
Importance of Disciple Training
Siddhar texts emphasize that a student must be observed and trained for years before being entrusted with advanced knowledge.
“சீடனென்று பன்னிரண்டு வருடம் காத்தால் அறிவான பக்தியவருக்கு இருந்த தானால் அப்பனே பொருள்வாங்கி நூலை ஈயே”
“Keep him as a disciple for twelve years;
If he proves to be wise and devoted,
Then impart the knowledge.”
Before teaching Varma, the guru ensures that the disciple possesses discipline, integrity, and good character. After Agastya Siddhar, great Siddhars such as Bogar, Pulipaani, and Theraiyar contributed to spreading this knowledge.
Divisions of Varmakalai
Varmakalai traditionally includes two major styles:
Vadakkan Varisai (Northern Method)
- Dual-hand striking
- Dual-leg kicking techniques
Thekkan Varisai (Southern Method)
- Single-hand striking
- Single-leg kicking techniques
Common classifications include:
- Thodu Varma
- Thattu Varma
- Padu Varma
- Nokku Varma
- Training Principles
Learning Varmakalai requires careful attention to:
- Body proportions
- Physical structure
- Measured application
- Precision
- Subtle control
“கைப்பாக வறுமமதை தேர்ந்து கொண்டு மெய்யடா கைப்பாகம் அறிய வேணும் மெல்லவே இதன்விபரம் நன்றாய்ப்பாரு.”
“Carefully understand the science of hand application;
Truly learn its method;
Observe its details patiently.”
Kai Paagam (Proper execution of force in vital point)
Since the hand directly interacts with vital points, one must clearly understand:
- Where to apply
- How much pressure to use
- Which point to stimulate
A deep understanding of body structure, nerve pathways, blood circulation, and energy flow is essential.
Strength alone is not enough—sensitivity, experience, and knowledge are vital.
Method of Learning
Varmakalai cannot be mastered quickly. It must be learned slowly, patiently, and under proper guidance. Even minor mistakes may lead to serious consequences. Therefore, each technique is taught with careful supervision and structured progression.
Deeper Understanding
“உடன்பிறந்தார் சுற்றத்தார் என்றிருக்க வேண்டா உடன்பிறந்தே கொல்லும் வியாதி…”
“Even blood relatives may not be trustworthy; kin-born diseases can kill…”
Just as certain illnesses arise from within the body, misuse of Varma knowledge can also cause harm. Therefore, the art must be approached with responsibility, neutrality, and ethical discipline.
True mastery requires freedom from ego, anger, and personal bias.
About Us – JADMA Varmakalai Academy
JADMA Varmakalai Academy is a traditional Tamil martial arts training center established to preserve and systematically pass on the ancient warrior heritage to future generations.
The academy was founded by Bojagarajan, who trained for 14 years as a direct disciple of Grandmaster R. Rajendran (Madurai). Through this dedicated training, he gained profound knowledge of Varma points and the discipline of the guru-shishya tradition.
Based on this strong traditional foundation, JADMA Varmakalai Academy was established.
Our training system goes beyond self-defense. It is designed as a holistic program that develops:
- Body-mind coordination
- Discipline
- Confidence
- Energy control
- Character development
Students are taught structured levels including:
- Varma strikes
- Varma release techniques
- Gripping methods
- Defensive applications
- Physical conditioning
Each student progresses from beginner to advanced stages, with opportunities to become professional instructors based on skill and discipline.
Currently, direct training classes are conducted in Thanjavur and Kumbakonam. Expansion plans are underway to open branches in additional locations.
Our mission is not only to preserve traditional Varma knowledge but also to promote:
- Social safety
- Women’s self-defense
- Physical fitness
- Ethical living
