Technique

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The basis of selecting a student by a Guru (master) to pass the knowledge is the good conduct of the student. It is strongly said that you should not teach even your child if the required discipline is not within him/her. The student if selected would have to promise /sworn/ declare by a statement after lighting lamps for Lord Buddha, Emperor Ravana and the protecting Gods that the art learnt will only be used in his/her defense or in defense of the family and in the service of the country.

History mentions thirty two weapons that have been used by the warriors of the king. Out of these the sword, bow & arrow, dagger, spear & the stick were the main five weapons. Since the techniques pertaining to all these were numerous, one single person to master all weapons required a life time of dedicated training. Sadly the prohibition that was in force for nearly two centuries appear to have been successful in suppressing any such effort and had made much of the knowledge oblivion. Ex- Bow & Arrow techniques

However we still have the opportunity to learn 95% of the art from the Masters who are willing to teach the knowledge that has been preserved down their generations.

The art is a way of life. As in any sport you need strength and the will to excel in the techniques you learn. However Angam Kalawa does not advocate exercises or practicing in any way that will harm you physically in the long run. You do not punch or kick concrete blocks or abuse your body in any manner that will have ill effects  after a while. You learn of herbs and plants and other natural food that will improve your strength. You learn of medicinal herbs and methods of indigenous Sri Lankan medicine.

You are required to learn to defend yourself against harm others would inflict on you. You do not learn Angam kalawa with the intention of inflicting harm to others. Your daily practicing should commence and end after meditating. In meditation you are required to focus on learning the art without injuring you or any others who will help you to learn the techniques.

The most important point in learning the art is how you place your feet. From the beginning to the end, it is said, whatever you learn will not be of value if your feet are not in proper place. In practicing Haramba or various combination of techniques you are taught to face all four sides that you are exposed to. You are prepared to face situations in real life.

As you progress in learning the art you will commence to respect the vulnerability of others who are less knowledgeable on the weaknesses of one’s physical body. You will not be angered by ego driven petty situations. You will learn to tolerate others to an extent that you may never have before but will also manage to hold your place in society. In effect you will become a respected healthy individual who will love and serve your country, your people and mother earth.
So join us and be a party to preserving an invaluable Sri Lankan traditional heritage for our future generations.

May the Triple Gem & God Ravana Bless You!