Silambam Martial Arts Classes in Bexleyheath – Strength, Discipline & Heritage for Parents and Kids
Discover the Ancient Tamil Art of Silambam
Silambam is one of India’s oldest martial arts, originating from Tamil Nadu over 2,000 years ago. Practised with a bamboo staff (“Silambam”), it develops agility, balance, discipline, and self-defence skills. Beyond physical strength, Silambam teaches focus, respect, and harmony — values deeply rooted in Tamil culture.
At Thalir Thamizh Kalvi, our Silambam classes in Bexleyheath are designed for both parents and children, creating a shared space to stay active, learn traditional techniques, and celebrate Tamil heritage together.
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Azhagiri Jayanthi Panneerselvam is a qualified Silambam Master with extensive experience teaching Tamil martial arts to children and young learners. Before joining Thalir Thamizh Kalvi in the UK, he served as a Silambam Instructor at Church Park Nursery & Primary School, Madukkur (Tamil Nadu) from 2021 to 2025, where he developed and implemented a structured Silambam curriculum focused on discipline, teamwork and cultural pride.
Azhagiri has achieved state-level championship titles in various Silambam forms, including Kambu Sandai, Otrai Kambu Veechu, Erattai Kambu Veechu, Vaal Veechu, Vel Kambu Veechu, and Surul Vaal Veechu. He has also been recognised by the Tamil Nadu School Games Development Foundation for excellence in Silambam stick fighting.
With a passion for nurturing confidence and fitness through traditional Tamil martial arts, Azhagiri brings both technical mastery and cultural authenticity to every Thalir Silambam class in Bexleyheath.
Start with Vanakkam (வணக்கம்)
Every Silambam class begins with Vanakkam (வணக்கம்), a gesture of respect to the teacher, fellow students, and the art itself. It represents humility, discipline, and gratitude, the core values of Tamil martial tradition. Students learn the posture, bow, and meaning behind Vanakkam before progressing to physical techniques.
Position for Technique
Nilaimurai” / நிலைமுறை
These are the foundation of every movement, ensuring stability, speed, and control during attack and defence.
Basic Technique 1 - Vaaral (வாரல்)
A sweeping, circular staff strike used to create range, off-balance an opponent, and set up follow-up attacks or defences.
Basic Technique 2 - Vettu (வெட்டு)
Vettu means “cut” or “slash.” It is a diagonal or vertical striking technique that develops precision, timing, and power. Practised with control and rhythm, it helps improve upper-body strength and weapon handling.
Basic Technique 3 - Kaluthu Arupu (கழுத்து அறுப்பு)
Kaluthu Arupu translates to “neck cut.” This technique teaches how to execute a swift, controlled horizontal strike aimed at upper-level targets. It emphasises accuracy, safety distance, and correct follow-through.
Basic Technique 4 - Thalai Arupu (தலை அறுப்பு)
Thalai Arupu means “head cut.” It is a downward strike from above, focusing on shoulder and wrist coordination. The movement trains students to combine power with control while maintaining proper stance and defence readiness.
Basic Technique 5 - Vaari Eru Vettu (வாரி ஏறு வெட்டு)
This technique combines Vaari (swing) with Eru Vettu (rising cut), forming a flowing upward strike. It helps students transition smoothly between attack angles and strengthens body rhythm and agility.
Basic Technique 6 - Ul Thadai Eruvettu (உள் தடை ஏறுவெட்டு)
A defensive-to-offensive motion, Ul Thadai Eruvettu teaches students to block an inward attack (Ul Thadai) and respond instantly with an upward strike (Eruvettu). It improves reaction time and counterattack skills.
Basic Technique 7 - Ul Thadai - Ul Thadai (உள் தடை – உள் தடை)
This is a combination drill involving consecutive inward blocks followed by controlled slashing motions. It develops rhythm, endurance, and proper transition between defence and offence.
Basic Technique 8 - Keel Thadai-Keel Thadai-Male Thadai-Male Thadai (கீழ் தடை – கீழ் தடை – மேல்தடை – மேல்தடை)
A four-step combination alternating between lower (Keel) and upper (Male) blocking techniques. It trains full-body coordination, quick directional changes, and balanced defensive posture.
Basic Technique 9 - Alangara Silambam (அலங்கார சிலம்பம்)
Alangara Silambam refers to the “decorative” or display style of Silambam, where fluid movements and rhythmic spins are performed with grace. It focuses on elegance, control, and presentation during performances.
Basic Technique 10 - Alangara Silambam - Vaaral (அலங்கார சிலம்பம் – வாரல்)
A combination of Vaaral (circular sweep) within the decorative Silambam form. It teaches students to blend aesthetic movement with technical skill, showcasing artistry, timing, and cultural expression.
