Krishna Prathap Conferred with Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026

We are delighted to share that Krishna Prathap, hailing from the state of Keralam, has been awarded the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026 by the Veyil Foundation. This esteemed recognition honors his exceptional contributions as the Chief Instructor in Martial Arts and Kalaripayattu. As the Founder and Director of the Parashurama Vallabhatta Kalari Academy, Krishna Prathap has played a pivotal role in the promotion and advancement of this traditional Indian martial art, demonstrating not only his profound expertise but also his unwavering dedication to the discipline. With an impressive career spanning over four decades, he has established himself as a distinguished teacher, practitioner, and performer of Kalaripayattu. His journey in this ancient art form commenced at the young age of six, under the guidance of his father, Sri Karthikeyan Gurukkal, and was further enriched through training with the renowned Padma Shri Shankara Narayana Menon Gurukkal, affectionately known as Unni Gurukkal. These formative experiences allowed him to cultivate a deep understanding of the techniques and philosophies integral to Kalaripayattu, which he has devoted his life to preserving and imparting. Krishna Prathap's relentless passion for Kalaripayattu is reflected in his commitment to mastering the art and ensuring its rich heritage is passed down to future generations. His leadership at the Parashurama Vallabhatta Kalari Academy has nurtured a vibrant community of students and practitioners who share his vision of sustaining this ancient martial art. By receiving the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar, Krishna Prathap not only celebrates his personal accomplishments but also underscores the significance of cultural preservation and the vital role that martial arts play in promoting discipline, respect, and physical fitness within society.