On the terrace of an independent house in Nungambakkam, a dozen people are rhythmically moving their bodies, completely oblivious to the sound of traffic from below. Engrossed in Tai Chi, 15 students are here to participate in a workshop conducted by the Budokai Martial Arts Association. This particular session is more special than others: Sifu Mai-Jun, a trainer from the Tai Chi Training School in Foshan Guangzhou, China, is present by invitation to instruct the students. But before we dive into it, we have some basics of Tai Chi to go through.
A Chinese martial art form that is based on the philosophy of yin and yang forces, Tai Chi is practised through the integration of the mind and body. The harmonisation between the hands, legs, eyes, mind and breathing cultivates our ‘qi’ or energy through slow, continuous motions.
The Budokai Martial Arts Association in Chennai was established in 1965 by RVT Mani, and is currently headed by Shihandai Anand Mohan. In addition to Tai Chi, they hold self defence and karate classes for women, children and senior citizens as well. The experienced practitioner adds that aside from conducting workshops for institutions across the city, the organisation has also taught the paramilitary forces and Government personnel.
As the senseis elaborate on the distinctive aspects of this art form, they explain how Tai Chi is also known as the ‘moving meditation’. With poetic and graceful movements, the stances are derived from the movement of animals — such as the snake, crane and the tiger — and make for an intensive visual journey.
Finally, we gather around Sifu Mai-Jun, who is in the city on the invitation of the Huan De Tao temple in Uthandi. An instructor for over 30 years, he specialises in the ‘Yang’ style that is the foundation of the majority of the forms. Despite the rapid Chinese, a beaming smile and quick nods of the head reiterate that everyone can understand him, as he elaborates on the inner and outer consciousness. With movements as fluid as water and utmost concentration, he performs the ‘cat step’, part of a 24-stance series performed by progressively shifting weight from one leg to the other, while moving your hands gracefully.
Music begins to flood the room soon after, and the Sifu (meaning ‘master’) slowly guides everyone across the room, occasionally pausing to explain the nuances of the placement of the body. Flowing from one position to another, without a break, it is understood that persistence is key. We try a few of the steps only to realise that it requires patience and resolution, qualities that have to be cultivated. Sharadha Vishwanathan, a mother of two, mentions how she used to bring her children here for karate in the evenings and decided to join Tai Chi instead of sitting around idly. Two years since, she claims that the art form has helped her to be more energetic and in control of her body, and has become a crucial part of her daily routine.
As the session draws to a close with everyone clarifying doubts and practising their stances, Sensei Manuel Thomas remarks that the opportunity to learn from the Sifu has been overwhelming, and has helped them to understand and correct their techniques. Overjoyed with the turnout, the Sifu expresses that he did not expect such ardent enthusiasts in Chennai and lauds the students for their performance. Amidst the flurry of questions, he smiles and emphasises on how the art form is a constant work in progress and will slowly transcend into a way of life.
The Budokai Martial Arts Association holds Tai Chi classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Their institute is located on Josier Road, Nungambakkam and can be reached at 9840379707.