India’s Siddha tradition didn’t just use metals for tools — they used them to heal, transform, and access higher states of consciousness.Dr. S. Mahesh introduces the 18 Siddhas and their sophisticated understanding of metals as medicine, drawing from the Tamil Siddha canon of poets like Shiva Vakyaar and Kudambai Siddhar. The microcosm-macrocosm connection — andathil ulladhe pindam — underpins a medical philosophy where bodily imbalances mirror cosmic imbalances, and metallic preparations, processed through mystical and alchemical methods, restore that equilibrium.From mercury sourced across continents by Siddhar Bhogar to preparations involving gold, silver, and even animal-origin substances, the talk reveals a system of Dhatu Shastra that predates Western metallurgy by centuries. Dr. Mahesh connects this to Ayurveda — Charaka and Sushruta both specified metal-based procedures — and calls for systematic research to recover this “vast ocean of forgotten knowledge.”

About the Speaker:
Dr. Mahesh is a versatile personality with a diverse academic background, holding a degree in Chemistry, a Masters in Journalism, and a Doctorate focused on the impact of Kalaripayattu on healing systems. He is a recognized authority in Thekkan Sampradayam of Kalaripayattu, Siddha Medicine, Vaasthu Sastra, and mystical Tantric practices. Dr. Mahesh has authored several books on Kalaripayattu, Vaastu, and Yoga, showcasing his deep knowledge in these fields. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Mahesh has made significant contributions to the media industry, receiving numerous awards for his short films and documentaries. His brainchild, “AGASTHYAM,” focuses on elevating consciousness through the rigorous practice of Kalaripayattu, benefiting many students by facilitating profound psycho-physical transformations.