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- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Martialarts

Star Citizens

Vidyut Jammwal Bags Major Hollywood Role in Live-Action Street Fighter

I’ve spent so many hours playing this game in gaming arcades, button-mashing with friends, celebrating every win like it was real. So seeing an Indian actor now stepping onto this very stage in real life feels incredibly special. It’s not just exciting; it’s emotional. A game I grew up playing is now a dream an Indian is actually living. And that makes this moment unforgettable. In a major development for Indian talent in global cinema, Vidyut Jammwal is reportedly set to appear in Hollywood’s upcoming live-action adaptation of the iconic video game Street Fighter. According to a report by Deadline, the 44-year-old martial artist and actor will be stepping into the role of Dhalsim, one of the franchise’s most beloved and spiritually powerful characters. For fans of both Bollywood and gaming, the news marks a thrilling moment, bridging two massive entertainment cultures through a familiar face known for discipline, authenticity, and unmatched action prowess.Why This Casting Matters: A Global Spotlight on Indian RepresentationThis role is more than just another acting assignment; it represents a broader movement in global cinema. Hollywood has long been searching for actors who can bring realism to action-heavy projects, and Vidyut is one of India’s finest martial artists with legitimate training in Kalaripayattu, parkour, and combat techniques. His physical discipline and cinematic presence make him an ideal choice to play Dhalsim, a character known for spirituality, inner strength, and moral grounding. For Indian audiences, it is also a proud moment seeing homegrown talent finally being cast in roles that suit their true abilities, rather than stereotypical portrayals. Vidyut’s global entry reflects the increasing respect for Indian performers who bring both skill and authenticity to their craft.Inside the New Street Fighter FilmThe upcoming film is directed by Kitao Sakurai, known for Bad Trip and Aardvark, promising a mix of gritty action and strong character-driven storytelling. Based on Capcom’s historic video game series launched in 1987, Street Fighter remains one of the most influential martial arts franchises in the world. With over 55 million copies sold, its fan base is vast and deeply loyal. The film brings together a powerhouse mix of Hollywood action stars. Andrew Koji takes on the role of Ryu, while Noah Centineo plays Ken. Callina Liang steps in as Chun-Li, with David Dastmalchian portraying the villain M. Bison. Jason Momoa transforms into Blanka, Orville Peck becomes the masked Vega, Andrew Schulz plays Dan Hibiki, and Roman Reigns appears as the fierce Akuma. Adding to this impressive lineup, Vidyut Jammwal shines as Dhalsim, the calm and wise yoga master known for his flexibility and iconic fire attacks. There are also reports that WWE star Cody Rhodes might be seen as Guile, though this has not been confirmed yet.Street Fighter’s Legacy: From 1987 to TodayFirst launched in 1987, the Street Fighter series revolutionized the world of arcade and console gaming. Centered around intense one-on-one battles, the game introduced players to a global tournament orchestrated by the villainous M. Bison. The 1994 film adaptation, though critically panned, became a cult classic and earned $99 million worldwide. The new version aims to rebuild the Street Fighter cinematic universe with modern storytelling, advanced action choreography, and culturally accurate casting—something that was lacking in the earlier adaptation. Vidyut’s inclusion is a nod to this more grounded, globally aware creative approach.Vidyut Jammwal’s Journey: From Indian Cinema to Global StageVidyut Jammwal’s path to this moment has been anything but easy. He made his Bollywood breakthrough as an antagonist in Force (2011), where his raw physicality and villainous charm left a memorable impact. Soon after, he helmed the Commando film series, earning recognition across India for performing his own stunts without cables or body doubles. Despite his unmatched martial arts credentials, Vidyut’s career saw its share of ups and downs. His recent film, Crack: Jeetegaa Toh Jiyegaa, failed at the box office despite a strong cast and high expectations. Yet this setback did not define him. His Hollywood casting shows something deeper: the world is finally noticing the talent India has long celebrated. This journey is also a reminder of the numerous challenges Indian actors face when trying to break into global markets: lack of representation, typecasting, cultural barriers, and absence of international exposure. Vidyut’s success becomes symbolic, not just for himself, but for every Indian striving to make a mark beyond the country’s borders.Vidyut Jammwal stepping into the role of Dhalsim is a milestone not only for him but for Indian cinema. It signifies Hollywood’s evolving appreciation for diverse talent and marks a new chapter for Indian representation in global action franchises. As the Street Fighter movie begins production, fans worldwide eagerly await how Vidyut will bring Dhalsim to life with authenticity, discipline, and the spirit of a true martial artist.

2 Dec 2025
Star Citizens

Prateek Singh's Inspiring Journey: From Small Town Dreams to International Glory!

Prateek Singh’s journey is not just about medals—it is about proving that hard work and perseverance can take you from modest beginnings to the global stage. Hailing from a small town, Prateek has carved his name in the world of Kudo, one of the fastest-growing mixed martial arts. A five-time International Champion, seven-time National Champion, and eight-time consecutive State Champion, he has become a force to reckon with in the sport.His most recent milestone—qualifying for the Kudo Asian Championship 2025 in Tokyo, Japan—cements his place among the world’s elite martial artists. For Prateek, however, every fight has been about more than just victory; it has been about carrying the Indian flag with pride.Understanding Kudo: More Than a Martial ArtKūdō is a Japanese hybrid martial art, blending techniques from karate, judo, jujutsu, muay thai, and kickboxing. Known for its full-contact format and emphasis on safety, it allows a mix of stand-up striking, grappling, and ground submissions. Recognized by over 10 national Olympic committees, Kudo is classified alongside traditional Japanese budō disciplines such as Judo, Aikido, and Kendo.Founded in 1981 by Takashi Azuma under Daido Juku, Kudo has since spread across more than 50 countries, with the Kudo International Federation overseeing its branches and certified instructors. For athletes like Prateek, it represents not just a sport but a way of life—discipline, resilience, and respect.Global Arenas, National PridePrateek’s international career took off with tournaments like the Kudo World Cup 2025 in Bulgaria, the Eurasian Cup 2024 in Armenia, and the World Series. Each competition was a proving ground where he showcased India’s strength and spirit on a global platform.His achievements did not go unnoticed. In a proud moment, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar personally recognized Prateek for his contributions to the sport—a symbolic acknowledgment of years of sacrifice and dedication.Balancing Two WorldsWhat sets Prateek apart is not just his athletic achievements but also his ability to balance them with a demanding professional career. Today, he serves as an Income Tax Officer in Mumbai, exemplifying how passion and responsibility can coexist. While his mornings may begin with grueling training sessions, his days are devoted to public service—a rare balance that speaks of discipline and time management.Inspiring the Next GenerationFor countless young athletes across India, Prateek Singh’s journey is an inspiration. He proves that no dream is too distant and no challenge too daunting if pursued with determination. His message is clear: talent alone is not enough—it must be matched with sacrifice, belief and dedication.From a small-town boy with big dreams to an international champion and a government officer, Prateek Singh embodies the spirit of perseverance. As he prepares to step onto the mats in Tokyo, the whole nation stands behind him. Good luck, Prateek—India is rooting for you!

17 Sep 2025
Star Citizens

More Than a Fighter: How One Woman Trained 6,000 Girls to Defend Themselves

Pratibha Thakkadpally’s story isn’t your everyday tale. She didn’t just switch careers; she switched entire worlds. Armed with an MBA from JNTU Hyderabad and a secure corporate job as a business analyst, she was set for a conventional path. But deep within, something didn’t feel right. Numbers, spreadsheets, and presentations couldn’t match the adrenaline rush and sense of purpose she felt in the boxing ring. That bold decision to leave the corporate world behind would transform not just her life, but the lives of thousands of girls across India. A Small-Town Girl with Big DreamsBorn in Pitlam, a small town in Telangana’s Kamareddy district, Pratibha grew up in an academic environment. Her parents ran a school, and education was a key part of her upbringing. But while books surrounded her, it was a boxing glove that caught her heart. One day, a young Pratibha saw Indian boxing icon Mary Kom raising the national flag. Mastering the Martial ArtsToday, Pratibha is not just a boxer; she is a master of eight martial art forms: kickboxing, Thai boxing, taekwondo, wushu, chess boxing, silambam, mixed martial arts, and grappling. Among them, chess boxing stands out for its rare mix of mental and physical prowess. Her mother taught her chess as a child, and she later trained in martial arts under coach Kandi Ravi in Hyderabad. In July 2025, her dedication paid off when she won six gold medals at the Indian Open International Chess Boxing Championship and the Asian Chess Boxing Competition held in Kolkata. Now, her sights are set on the World Championships in Serbia.Training 6,000 Girls to Fight BackWhat truly sets Pratibha apart is her mission: empowering girls through self-defence. Over the years, she has trained more than 6,000 girls, mainly in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) across Kamareddy, as well as at the Telangana Police Academy and IIT Madras. Her training sessions are not just about punches and blocks; they are filled with real-life lessons on self-worth, courage, and identity. For many girls who’ve been taught to stay quiet, Pratibha’s classes are the first place they learn how to fight back.Fighting Stereotypes With Every PunchPratibha’s journey hasn’t been smooth. Injuries, resistance from society, and the pressure to follow a “safe” path were always present. But she never stopped. She’s living proof that strength is not just about muscles; it’s about mindset. Whether it was fighting physical exhaustion during back-to-back rounds of chess boxing or dealing with the emotional toll of breaking gender norms, she’s faced it all with courage. Today, Pratibha is more than an athlete; she’s a mentor, role model, and change-maker. She dreams of setting up dedicated self-defence academies across rural India, especially for underprivileged girls. And as she prepares for the World Championships, she’s not just aiming for medals; she’s aiming for a movement. What makes Pratibha’s journey deeply human is not just the glory; it’s the emotional connection she builds with every girl she trains. Many of her students come from difficult backgrounds, having faced harassment or restrictions on their freedom. But in Pratibha, they find hope, inspiration, and someone who believes in them.

6 Aug 2025
Star Citizens

Global Honour for India: Hanshi Shaswat Kumar Receives World Martial Arts Pioneer Award and 10th Hall of Fame Recognition

Martial arts isn’t just about punches, kicks, and physical strength; it’s a path of discipline, inner mastery, and lifelong dedication. Few people embody this better than Hanshi Shaswat Kumar, a 36-year-old martial arts expert from Hyderabad who has made his name in the history of global martial arts. His recent recognition with the World Martial Arts Pioneer Award in Germany and his 10th consecutive induction into the International Hall of Fame mark him as a rare gem not just in India, but across the world.Honoured on the Global StageHanshi Shaswat Kumar received the World Martial Arts Pioneer Award from Prof. Soke Hanshi Dr. Thanh Winter-Luong, President of the Kabudo Karate Federation in Germany. This prestigious award acknowledges Kumar’s outstanding role in promoting martial arts across continents, particularly through his work with the Senkoukai Karate system, a unique and independently recognized style of karate founded by him. At the same event, Kumar achieved another rare feat: his 10th consecutive induction into the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame. This recognition was jointly conferred by respected global martial arts organizations, including the International Martial Arts Dragon Tiger Thich Thanh Tam School, Council of Professors and International Senior Grandmasters, Universal Martial Arts Brotherhood, and several top Japanese and international institutions. This continued global acclaim is not just about awards—it reflects decades of relentless dedication, innovation, and a desire to empower others through the philosophy of martial arts.Kumar’s historic recognition doesn’t end there. In May 2025, he was awarded the 10th Dan Black Belt.What is a Dan Black Belt?In martial arts, a Dan Black Belt is a ranking system that shows how skilled and experienced a person is after they earn their first black belt. The word “Dan” is a Japanese word that means “level” or “step.” So, when someone says they are a 1st Dan Black Belt, it means they have taken the first step beyond the basic black belt and are starting their journey as an advanced martial artist. The Dan levels go from 1st Dan (Shodan) all the way up to 10th Dan (Judan). Each level shows how much a person has improved, not just in technique but also in their understanding, teaching, and contribution to martial arts. For example, a 1st Dan knows the basics very well, while someone with a 5th or 6th Dan is usually a master who teaches others and helps grow the art. The 10th Dan is extremely rare and is usually given to someone who has dedicated their whole life to martial arts and made a big impact around the world. So, the Dan Black Belt is very important; it’s not just about fighting skills but also about discipline, leadership, and lifelong learning.The Historic 10th Dan Black Belt: A First for IndiaIn what can only be described as a groundbreaking moment for Indian martial arts, Shaswat Kumar became the first Indian to be awarded the 10th Dan Black Belt by the All Japan Martial Arts Organization, a title only given to the most elite practitioners in the world. The honor was conferred personally by Soke Yoshimoto Tanaka, the president of the organization, in recognition of Kumar’s lifetime commitment to martial arts, technical brilliance, and tireless global advocacy for traditional karate. A 10th Dan is more than just a rank; it is the highest level of mastery, often compared to a Ph.D. or lifetime achievement in the academic world. It is almost unheard of for someone so young to receive it, making Kumar’s achievement even more exceptional.A Symbol of Strength, Discipline, and HopeHanshi Shaswat Kumar’s journey is not just about personal achievements; it’s about breaking barriers for Indian martial artists and showing the world that excellence, when combined with humility and service, can have a far-reaching impact. From Hyderabad to Germany, Japan to Vietnam, Kumar’s name now echoes as a symbol of inspiration for young martial artists and a torchbearer of India’s martial heritage on the global stage. As he continues to teach, inspire, and break new ground, Hanshi Shaswat Kumar reminds us all that true mastery is not just about defeating opponents; it’s about conquering yourself.

23 Jul 2025
Star Citizens

Unstoppable at 80: The Kalaripayattu Queen Meenakshi!

In a world that loves to put labels and limits on women, Meenakshi Amma Gurukkal stands as an unstoppable force, rewriting the narrative of age, gender, and strength. At 80 years old, far from slowing down, she is leading the charge, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to be a woman in her prime. The passage of time has not diminished her, but instead has only amplified her prowess. A Padma Shri awardee and the oldest living female practitioner of Kalaripayattu, India’s most ancient martial art, Meenakshi Gurukkal’s life is a roaring anthem of rebellion, and raw power. In a world where age often limits a woman’s voice, she shouts louder with each passing year, proving that true strength only deepens with time.80 Years, Zero Limits: Meet India’s Oldest Female Martial Artist!Her story doesn't begin with medals, it begins with a spark. Born in 1940 in Kerala’s Kannur district, young Meenakshi first laid her eyes on Kalaripayattu at just 7 years old. While society tried to tame little girls with rules and silence, her father dared to break the mold. He introduced her to the male-dominated world of Kalari, planting a seed that would grow into a revolution.In an era when women were expected to remain invisible, she stepped into the Kalari arena, amazed by the fluid, fearless warriors in motion. That day, she didn’t just learn an art form, she chose to fight the patriarchal mindset that told her she couldn’t.For over seven decades, Meenakshi Gurukkal has lived, breathed, and bled Kalaripayattu. Long before the world began talking about women’s empowerment, she was living it, training, teaching, and slashing stereotypes with every move. Her sweat-drenched commitment earned her the prestigious Padma Shri in 2017, but her real reward lies in every young girl who now dares to dream bigger because of her.Even today, at 80, when society would rather see her fade quietly into the background, Meenakshi Amma is at the frontlines, training, guiding, and leading. Her body might carry the weight of years, but her spirit is unbreakable.Not Your Average Amma: The Kalaripayattu Legend!Meenakshi Gurukkal’s life is living proof that age is irrelevant and gender is no boundary. She has fought against societal norms that have always tried to box women in, to be soft, silent, submissive. She proved that a woman’s place can be in the battlefield, the classroom, or wherever she decides it to be.Her students, many of them young girls, don't just learn self-defense but they learn how to reclaim their space in a world that tries to shrink them. She teaches them that their bodies are powerful, their minds sharp, and their spirits untamable.The Kalari: A Sacred Space of Power! Her Kalari, built in 1949 by her late husband Raghavan Gurukkal, is no ordinary training ground. It is a sanctuary of strength, discipline, and sisterhood. It is here that Meenakshi Gurukkal nurtures warriors not just fighters in the ring, but warriors of life. Each lesson echoes the age-old philosophy of Kalaripayattu, mastery over body, mind, and soul.In a country often plagued by gender violence and restrictions, Meenakshi Amma’s Kalari is a defiant, sacred space that whispers to every woman, You are enough, you are powerful, you are limitless.Strength, Spirit, Saree: Meenakshi Gurukkal’s Revolution!Her story isn’t just about martial arts, it’s about a woman who refused to give up, give in, or grow silent. It’s about courage that transcends age, about womanhood that refuses to bow down. Through her unwavering dedication, she has empowered generations to believe in their own strength. Meenakshi Gurukkal is not just a teacher. She is a revolution wrapped in an 80-year-old body, a reminder that no cage, no rule, no stereotype can ever hold back a woman who knows her worth.Her life screams one unapologetic truth, Strength has no expiry date. Power has no gender. And warriors wear sarees too.

31 Mar 2025
Star Citizens

Kicking Her Way to Glory: Meet the Youngest Taekwondo Instructor Ever!

The world is no stranger to young prodigies breaking records and dazzling audiences with their incredible skills. From breathtaking gymnastics to mind-blowing musical performances, talented kids continue to redefine limits. One such rising star is Samyuktha Narayanan, a seven-year-old from Madurai, India, who has now etched her name in history as the youngest Taekwondo instructor ever, certified by the Guinness World Records (GWR).Born to Kick High!Samyuktha’s journey in Taekwondo began at just three years old, following in the footsteps of her parents, Shruthy and Narayanan, who run the Madurai Taekwondo Academy. Martial arts are in her blood—both of her parents are Guinness World Record holders themselves!Her father, Narayanan, holds multiple records, including the most marble slabs broken with a single kick (7) and most flaming concrete blocks broken in 30 seconds (29). Her mother, Shruthy, was the first female to clinch the record for the most full-contact elbow strikes in one minute using alternate elbows. With such an inspiring background, it was only a matter of time before Samyuktha set her own milestone!A Record-Breaking FeatOn January 20, 2024, at just seven years and 270 days old, Samyuktha officially became the world’s youngest Taekwondo instructor.The Guinness World Records Instagram post celebrating her achievement went viral, featuring photos of the young champion in action.The internet community was quick to shower praise and admiration. “Heartiest congratulations, Samyuktha! Your determination and hard work are truly inspiring,” wrote one user. Another commented, “She is an inspiration for aspiring martial artists! Kudos to her parents for their incredible upbringing.”Samyuktha’s motivation to break a world record was deeply personal. Speaking to GWR, she revealed, “My biggest inspirations are my parents. I used to admire the Guinness World Records certificates hanging on the walls at home. It was my dream to achieve my own title and hang my certificate right next to theirs.”And she did just that! Her accomplishment has made her a star in her hometown. “After I achieved my GWR title, I received appreciation from my friends, family, and teachers. Seeing my photos in newspapers and on TV made me feel like a celebrity!” she said excitedly.Training Like a ChampionBecoming the youngest Taekwondo instructor was no easy feat. To earn her black belt, Samyuktha had to push herself beyond limits. Her training routine included running 5 km, intense workouts, and mastering the entire Taekwondo syllabus. Despite being the youngest in her batch, she proved her mettle and achieved her black belt certification from the World Taekwondo Headquarters in Korea.Samyuktha’s journey is proof that age is no barrier to success. As she continues to train and inspire others, one thing is certain—this is just the beginning of an incredible journey for this young martial artist!

25 Mar 2025
Star Citizens

Kolkata’s Wonder Girl: Rishika Banerjee Becomes Youngest National Karate Champion!

At just 16 years old, Rishika Banerjee from Kolkata has made history, becoming the youngest-ever champion of the prestigious National Full Contact Karate Championship 2025. Competing in the open-weight adult category, her victory has etched her name into the tournament’s 28-year legacy.Held in Raniganj, West Bengal, the championship saw Rishika face off against four seasoned competitors in grueling multi-round matches. Despite being the youngest participant, she showcased flawless technique, unparalleled focus, and mental resilience, securing her place as a trailblazer in martial arts.Reflecting on her achievement, Rishika humbly stated that the victory was not just hers but belonged to every young martial artist who dared to dream big. She said competing in an open-weight adult category was tough but taught her the importance of perseverance and believing in herself.Source: Google ImagesHer father and coach, Mayukh Banerjee, couldn’t hide his pride. “Rishika’s dedication to her craft is unparalleled. Winning such a prestigious title at just 16 speaks volumes about her hard work and passion for martial arts,” he said.Rishika’s journey began at just 4.5 years old under her father’s guidance at Mike's Martial Arts in Kolkata. By the age of 12, Rishika had earned her black belt in Shotokan Karate and continues to excel in Kyokushin Karate, currently holding a brown stripe.Rishika’s latest victory adds to her impressive list of accolades. In 2024, she clinched the Under-16 Women’s Title at the European Open Karate Kyokushinkai Championship, defeating competitors from Denmark, Spain, and the Canary Islands. Rishika’s story is one of grit, talent, and determination. She is a shining example of how young athletes can challenge norms and make their mark in history. Having made her mark in the world of karate, Rishika is undoubtedly a rising star to keep an eye on.

21 Jan 2025
Star Citizens

Unlocking Inner Strength: Hyderabad's Shaolin Kung Fu Maestro, Subbu Dharna

Subbu Dharna, a resident of Hyderabad, has embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment, transforming himself from an aspiring soldier to a renowned Shaolin spiritual seeker. Under the tutelage of Shifu Kanishka Sharma, Dharna now possesses the exclusive authority to impart the sacred teachings of Shaolin Kung Fu in the city. Having dreamed of joining the Indian Army, Dharna's aspirations were cut short due to his height falling below the required standards. However, he chose to redirect his path and pursue the path of Shaolin Kung Fu, ultimately becoming an indomitable warrior in the art form. Hyderabad residents now have the unique opportunity to learn the ancient art of Shaolin Kung Fu without traveling to China, thanks to Dharna's expertise. Shifu Kanishka Sharma, the first Indian to introduce 'Pekiti Tirisa Kali' combat art to India, has trained Dharna, who is now a 16-time grand champion of Indian Kung Fu. Shaolin Kung Fu, rooted in Chan Buddhism, is one of the oldest and most popular styles of martial arts. Developed within the historic Shaolin Temple in China, this art form emphasizes not only physical strength and combat techniques but also spiritual teachings, inner harmony, and enlightenment. Dharna explained that learning Shaolin Kung Fu is a gradual journey, emphasizing the intricate synergy of the six vital joints in the human body. He incorporates the authentic principle of 'six batteries equal one battery' in his teachings, highlighting the amalgamation of energy derived from these joints, along with the practice of Qigong for mental and spiritual cultivation. Encompassing profound pillars of spirituality, martial prowess, and holistic well-being, Shaolin Kung Fu has provided Dharna and his disciples with a profound sense of spirituality and transformation. Dharna envisions a future as a monk, sharing his wisdom and teachings with future generations.  

23 Sep 2023
Star Citizens

From District-Level to International Gold: The Martial Arts Journey of a Young Trailblazing Woman

Alla Radha, a 30-year-old native of Eluru in Andhra Pradesh is a force to be reckoned with in the world of martial arts. Against her parents' wishes, Radha began her journey in martial arts when she was just 15 years old. Despite her parents' reservations, Radha proved her mettle by winning her first gold medal at a district-level competition. Radha's achievements are nothing short of exemplary. According to a report in The New Indian Express, she has won 20 gold medals in national-level competitions and 7 gold medals in international-level competitions. Moreover, Radha has set a record by teaching martial arts to over 5,000 young men and women, ranging from constables to sub-inspectors in the police force. Despite getting married at a young age, Radha continued to practice and teach karate. Her passion for martial art led her to become a 4th Dan black belt holder and a referee, after successfully passing the Karate India Organisation test. Radha's ultimate goal is to become an Asian Lady Referee. Radha's journey has not been without struggles. She faced gender discrimination and societal pressure, but she persevered and emerged victorious. Her father, Alla Rambabu, supported her interest in martial arts and allowed her to train under BL Narayana and Ibraheem Baigh.  Radha emphasizes the importance of self-defense techniques and encourages young girls to train in martial arts. She urges the government to appoint women instructors to train schoolgirls, citing examples from Punjab and Odisha States. Alla Radha's exemplary karate skills and her dedication to teaching self-defense techniques have made her a role model for young girls and women. 

31 Mar 2023
Star Citizens

Sports Spirit

Kick, Punch, Repeat : Namrata Batra Wins India’s First Wushu Medal at World Games

In the bustling lanes of Indore, a young girl grew up with dreams far beyond what her family or society imagined for her. Namrata Batra, born into a conservative joint family, was fascinated by martial arts, a sport not often seen as a career option for girls, especially in small towns of India. While most children her age were being guided toward academics and stable professions, Namrata wanted to step into the fighting arena, a space rarely accepted as “feminine” in traditional households. Her grandparents, influenced by societal perceptions, strongly opposed her choice. Their concern was not about her safety or health but about the attire—sleeveless vests and shorts—that female athletes wear while training and competing. For them, it was about “what society would say,” a phrase many ambitious girls in India have grown up hearing. But Namrata had one solid pillar of strength: her father, Sanjay Batra. A businessman by profession, he became her shield against criticism and her biggest motivator. He made sure societal whispers never stopped his daughter from chasing her dreams.The Moment of Glory: Making History in ChengduOn a Tuesday evening in Chengdu, China, the 24-year-old scripted history for Indian sports. Namrata Batra became the first-ever Indian athlete to win a World Games medal in wushu, clinching silver in the women’s sanda 52 kg event. India, in its entire 44-year journey at the World Games, had won just seven medals—one gold, two silver, and four bronze. But never before had the tricolor been raised for wushu. Namrata’s victory not only added to India’s medal tally but also carved a new chapter in the country’s sporting history. For a girl once questioned for wearing shorts, standing on the podium in China with the world applauding her courage and skill was nothing short of poetic justice. Her journey is not just about medals, it is about challenging stereotypes, changing mindsets, and proving that passion and perseverance can alter even the strongest of traditions.Wushu: A Sport of Strength and SkillWushu is a martial art that started in China and is now played as a sport around the world. It has two main types: Taolu and Sanda. Taolu is like a performance, where players show set movements, sometimes with weapons, to display their speed, balance, and strength. Sanda is very different – it is a real fight between two players, using punches, kicks, and throws, much like boxing and wrestling together. It is tough, fast, and needs both courage and skill. Namrata chose to compete in Sanda, the harder part of wushu, where every match tests both the body and the mind. Her achievements show her power, discipline, and fearless spirit in the ring. Namrata specializes in sanda, where the intensity is at its peak. Competing at international levels requires not just physical strength but also sharp reflexes, mental resilience, and immense discipline.A Glittering Medal TallyNamrata’s silver at the World Games is the biggest highlight of her career so far, but it is not her only success. Over the years, she has consistently proved her talent at both national and international levels. She won a silver medal at the Asian Championships in 2024, a bronze at the Asia Cup in 2025, and a gold medal at the Moscow Wushu Star Championships. Back home, she has won several medals at the National Games in Uttarakhand and Gujarat. Her journey began as a junior national champion from 2015 to 2018, and she continued her dominance as a senior by winning gold medals every year from 2018 to 2021 in the 48 kg category. In 2022, she moved up to the 52 kg division, showing not only her adaptability but also her determination to take on bigger challenges.More Than a Medal: A Symbol of ChangeNamrata’s journey is not just about personal success but also about breaking barriers for countless young girls in India who face societal restrictions. Her story relates to every child told that “this is not for girls,” every athlete discouraged because of clothing choices, and every dreamer asked to compromise. Today, she is an inspiration for the youth of India, showing that with determination, family support, and the courage to challenge norms, one can turn dreams into reality. At 24, Namrata’s journey is just beginning. With her historic silver medal, she has already placed Indian wushu on the global map. But for her, this is not the destination; it is just the start. Her ultimate goal is to bring home more international medals, inspire young athletes, and perhaps one day see wushu gain wider recognition in India.

20 Aug 2025
Sports Spirit

The Whys and Hows

Self-Defence Techniques - Does it Make you a Smarter Person?

The practice of martial arts is an age-old combative tradition that is used for self-defense, competition, and the growth of the body, mind, and soul. The martial arts originated in Sri Lanka more than 3,000 years ago and then extended to China, India, Korea, the West, and the United States. Mind, body, and spirit are connected through martial arts: Training in martial arts is a comprehensive form of physical activity that emphasizes mental, spiritual, and physical conditioning as well as a disciplined approach to fitness. Since obesity is on the rise and people are becoming more health-conscious, we must take care of our physical and mental well-being. Sports and physical activity are, of course, essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Here are four benefits of learning martial arts for your brain- Enhanced emotional well-being: It's important to note that martial arts have been demonstrated to enhance a person's emotional well-being as many scientists are currently researching the connections between psychological well-being and physical health. Purpose in life: Martial arts practitioners frequently experience a sense of calm, self-assurance, and newfound peace with who they are and their life's purpose.  Martial arts have become a legitimate option for a workout:  Due to its adaptability, martial arts are a well-liked option for practitioners from various spheres of life. It's crucial to keep in mind  that  during any form of martial arts your body serves as the vehicle for your intellect to carry out the skills from your heart, leading to a healthy amount of physical exhaustion.   A Higher sense of self : Challenges enhance your mind in the same way that physical training does for your body. Martial arts can be helpful because they teach you how to recover from failures and how crucial it is to not let life's challenges bring you down. “Fall seven times, stand up eight”. – Japanese Proverb  Always keep a constant reminder to yourself that there is no finish line. When you reach one goal, find a new one !

20 Oct 2023
The Whys and Hows

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