Sami Gurukkal, one of the famous kalari practitioners of the early 20th century, established Kairali Kalari Sangham at Karanthur near Calicut, Kerala in 1929. Martial arts generally evoke an image of violence and Kalaripayattu is no exception. It has however a softer side; healing systems that are very popular all throughout Kerala. The Kalaripayattu masters are not only experts in martial art but also highly skilled in sports injury treatment and rehabilitation.