FAQs
What is Ruthranaagam?
01
Ruthranaagam is a Tamil martial arts school based in Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2011, we teach authentic Tamil martial arts, including Silambam, Varma Kalai, Kuthu Varisai, Adimurai, and Vasi Yogam, alongside traditional Siddha Varma Medicine.
What makes your school different from other martial arts schools?
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We are one of the only schools in North America teaching these arts in their complete, authentic form — directly transmitted through a verified lineage. We do not teach sport-based or hybrid systems. Every discipline we offer has deep roots in the Tamil Siddha warrior tradition and is taught in the traditional gurukul way, master to student.
What does Paraaparakkanni mean?
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It is the name of our lineage — meaning "from the supreme to the supreme" in Tamil. It signals our connection to a specific, unbroken chain of masters that stretches back through Tamil history.
Do I need any experience to join?
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No. Complete beginners are welcome at all levels. All you need is sincere interest and a willingness to commit. No prior martial arts experience is required.
What age groups do you teach?
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We offer a Kids Program for ages 6–13 and a Youth and Adult Program for ages 14 and up.
Where are classes held?
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Kids classes are held at Get Fit Toronto, 3021 Markham Rd Unit 53, Scarborough, ON M1X 1L8 on Thursdays and Saturdays from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Youth and adult classes are held at Harmony Martial Arts and Fitness, 1755 Plummer St, Pickering, ON L1W 3L7 on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 10:00 am and Sundays from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Do I need a uniform or equipment for my first class?
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No. Come as you are to your first session. The master will advise you on what you may need as your training develops.
Can my child join the adult class?
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Students 14 and older are welcome in the Youth and Adult program. For children under 14 the Kids Program is the appropriate starting point.
Simply call or text us at (647) 205-3743 to have a conversation with the master before your first class. There is no online registration — we prefer to speak with every new student personally.
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How do I register?
What is Siddha Varma Medicine?
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It is the therapeutic branch of Varma Kalai — the Tamil science of 108 vital points on the human body. Using precise touch at specific points, the master works to remove energetic blockages and restore the body's natural flow of prana. It is a complete traditional healing system rooted in the Tamil Siddha tradition, distinct from Ayurveda or yoga therapy.
What conditions can Siddha Varma Medicine help with?
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We provide supportive care for a wide range of conditions including diabetes and thyroid disorders, neck, back and spine pain, joint and knee conditions, sports and ligament injuries, nerve and neurological disorders, migraines and headaches, respiratory conditions, kidney stones, skin and eye conditions, post-stroke recovery, Parkinson's disease support, and general pain relief and wellness.
Do I need to be a martial arts student to receive treatment?
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No. Varma treatments are open to anyone, regardless of whether they train with us.
Treatments are provided privately at the master's residence in the Greater Toronto Area. The exact address is provided upon booking.
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Where are treatments held?
Call or text us at (647) 205-3743 to speak with the master directly about your condition. All treatments are by appointment only. Your inquiry is treated with complete confidentiality.
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How do I book a treatment?
How many sessions will I need?
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This depends entirely on your condition. Acute injuries may show significant improvement in fewer sessions, while chronic conditions typically benefit from a longer course of treatment. The master will discuss this with you after the initial assessment.
Is this covered by insurance?
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Siddha Varma Medicine is a traditional practice and is not currently covered by standard Canadian health insurance plans. Please call to discuss pricing directly.
What is The Palmyra Archive?
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It is our living digital repository of ancient Tamil martial arts knowledge — including palm-leaf manuscript transcriptions, technique demonstration videos, historical artifact records, and translations of classical Tamil texts. It is free to browse and grows over time as we document more of the tradition.
Is all the content in the Archive free to access?
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Most of the Archive is open to everyone. Certain texts and materials dealing with advanced Varma Kalai applications and Vasi Yogam practices are restricted to enrolled students and verified scholars, as this knowledge requires direct instruction to be understood and practiced safely.
Can I contribute to the Archive?
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Yes. If you have Tamil martial arts texts, family photographs, weapons, or knowledge connected to this tradition, we welcome your contribution. Please get in touch with us directly to discuss.
What is the best way to reach you?
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Call or text (647) 205-3743. This is the most direct way to reach the master and receive a prompt response.
How quickly will you respond?
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We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 to 48 hours. For urgent matters please call directly.
Do you offer private lessons?
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Please call to discuss. Certain instruction, particularly in advanced disciplines, is conducted on a one-to-one basis by nature.
Do you teach outside of the GTA?
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Classes are currently held in Scarborough and Pickering. Varma treatments are available across the Greater Toronto Area by appointment. Please contact us to discuss any other arrangements.