India's sword-wielding grandmother still going strong at 82

BBC - Apr 19th, 2025

Meenakshi Raghavan, affectionately known as Meenakshi Amma, is an 82-year-old martial arts teacher celebrated as possibly the oldest woman practicing Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art from Kerala. Despite her age, she continues to teach around 50 students daily at the school founded by her late husband in 1950. Known for her dedication, Meenakshi Amma has been practicing Kalaripayattu since she was seven years old, and she has no plans to retire. Her influence extends beyond her immediate students, as many have opened their own schools, spreading the art form across the region. Her eldest son, Sanjeev, also an instructor, is expected to take over when she eventually steps down.

Kalaripayattu, believed to be at least 3,000 years old, is more than just a combat technique; it incorporates discipline, self-defence, and strength building. The story of Meenakshi Amma highlights the cultural significance of Kalaripayattu and its influence on other martial arts such as Kung Fu. Her journey is remarkable not only for her age but also for overcoming societal barriers, as she was encouraged by her father to continue her training beyond puberty, a rarity at the time. Her life and work stand as a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural richness of Kalaripayattu, serving as an inspiration to women and martial artists worldwide.

Cultural Heritage Kerala Meenakshi Raghavan Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Women's Empowerment

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RATING

8.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a compelling and accurate portrayal of Meenakshi Amma and her dedication to Kalaripayattu, supported by credible sources and well-structured narrative. While it effectively highlights cultural and personal themes, additional perspectives and transparency regarding historical claims would enhance its depth and reliability. The story's engaging presentation and focus on cultural heritage make it relevant and of public interest, though its impact on broader societal or policy changes is limited. Overall, the article succeeds in informing and inspiring readers about the significance of preserving traditional arts and the contributions of influential individuals like Meenakshi Amma.

Accuracy

The news story is highly accurate, with most factual claims well-supported by independent sources. Meenakshi Amma's age, role, and dedication to Kalaripayattu are consistently verified. The historical context of Kalaripayattu, including its origins and training stages, aligns with established knowledge. The connection to Chinese martial arts via Bodhidharma is a commonly cited legend, though more historical evidence would strengthen this claim. The article accurately reflects Meenakshi Amma's status and influence in the martial arts community.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view by focusing on Meenakshi Amma's personal journey and the broader cultural significance of Kalaripayattu. It highlights her contributions and challenges, offering insights into both her personal life and professional achievements. However, the story could benefit from additional perspectives, such as those of her students or other Kalaripayattu practitioners, to provide a more rounded view of her impact and the martial art's current status.

Clarity

The article is well-written, with a clear and engaging narrative structure. It effectively conveys information about Meenakshi Amma and Kalaripayattu, maintaining a neutral tone throughout. The logical flow and use of direct quotes enhance comprehension and engagement, making the story accessible to a broad audience.

Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including direct quotes from Meenakshi Amma and references to historical aspects of Kalaripayattu. However, it lacks explicit attribution to specific sources or experts for some historical claims, such as the link between Kalaripayattu and Chinese martial arts. Including more diverse and authoritative sources could enhance the article's reliability and depth.

Transparency

The article provides a clear narrative of Meenakshi Amma's life and achievements, but it lacks detailed transparency about the methodology behind certain claims, particularly the historical connections and societal impacts. Greater disclosure of sources and the basis for historical assertions would improve transparency and reader trust.