At a time when the corporate world is gradually getting back to the pre-Covid mode, an IT company based in Kerala's capital city is implementing an innovative induction programme for its employees to feel more at ease in the office. ACSIA Technologies, which functions at Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram, is giving its employees training in Kalari, Kerala's traditional martial arts, to maintain their mental and physical well-being.
The company provides software solutions to automobile manufacturers and automobile-based firms. The Kalari classes are part of the training given to the company's newly appointed engineers.
The company chose to implement this innovative induction programme to make its newly appointed employees feel at home as they were not able to work in the office atmosphere or mingle with their colleagues during the work-from-home days.
The training programme, titled 'Ignition', was started to wade away their apprehensions and to give a new beginning at the office, according to the management. ACSIA CEO Jijimon Chandran said that Kalari-based training was selected as it rejuvenates one's mind and body. He said it was important to maintain the mental health of the employees have to be maintained even as improving their technical knowledge.
The Kalari training, to a large extend, is aimed at reducing the stress induced by work from home and work-related issues.
The training programme is designed by Agustyam International led by Dr S Mahesh Gurukkal. “This martial art helps in improving the mental and physical health of a person and also gives more concentration, courage and confidence,” says Dr S Mahesh Gurukkal. He also pointed out that Kalari has several health benefits like controlling blood flow, heartbeat, breathing and metabolism.
The employees at ACSIA who participated in the training programme said that the Kalari training helped them maintain physical fitness and create a good relationship with co-workers.
The company is planning to conduct Kalari training on a long-term basis for the welfare of its employees.