Visual Stories
My Karate Journey
In 1984, a Karate workshop for senior Karatekas from across Kerala was conducted by Sensei P. Kuppusamy, clad in a green gi, at the Udyogamandalam Club in Kerala, India. In the photograph, I am standing second to the right of Sensei Kuppusamy.
In 1995, Hanshi Zempo Shimabokoro, Chief of Shorin-ryu Seibukan, led a Karate session during his inaugural visit to Cochin, Kerala, India. I had the honor of assisting him take the class and can be identified as the person holding a white towel in my left hand.
In 1981, during a Shodan-level kumite match, I am facing a front kick from Sensei Johnny Jose, an accomplished Karate fighter. Sensei P. Kuppusamy can be seen officiating the bout as referee.
In 1981, a few senior Karatekas came together for a group photo with Sensei P. Kuppusamy (seated left) and the Mayor of Kochi, Mr. A.K. Sheshadri. Standing from left to right are Dr. Prakash Chandran, Prakashan, A.R. Gopi, Mallika, Gandharvan, and myself.
In 1982, in Cochin, Kerala, India, I joined senior Karatekas in demonstrating the Saisan Kata - an ancient karate form often regarded as a gateway to advanced techniques. I am positioned at the center-front of the group.
Dojo Karatekas from Changanacherry, Kerala, India, in 1978 - I'm standing fifth from the left, alongside Kurian George (second from left) and Antony Maveli (third from left). This dojo marked the beginning of my journey into the world of Karate.
In 1987, from the dojo in Changanacherry, Kerala, India, I am seated first from the left, alongside Instructor Sensei Vam Iqbal, who is seated third from the left. Sensei Iqbal was among my earliest and influential Karate instructors.
In 1992, I delivered a lecture in Kannur, Kerala, India on the topic 'What is Karate and Its Relevance to Physical and Mental Health. Such sessions were part of our ongoing efforts to raise public awareness about the value and philosophy of Karate.
In 1980, I regularly practiced various kicks including the roundhouse kick, as seen here with D.K. Chauhan at Kurukshetra University. The hostel terrace provided an ideal setting for Karate training, offering both open space and atmosphere for focused practice.
Along with fellow Karatekas in demonstrating a Shorin-ryu Kata at Njarackal, Kerala, India in 1991. These demonstrations held at various locations played a vital role in bridging the gap between the martial arts community and the general public.
My first batch of students from Kurukshetra University, Haryana, India, in 1980 - pictured with Sensei P. Kuppusamy and his wife, Mallika. At the time, most were pursuing degrees in Engineering and Master of Science, and many went on to become senior executives in leading corporations around the world.
Performing a karate back stance at Kurukshetra University, Haryana, India in 1980. It is through consistent and repeated practice that a Karateka is shaped closer toward perfection.
Practicing Karate Kobudo alongside Sensei P. Kuppusamy and Gandharvan (extreme right) in Cochin, Kerala, India, in 1980. While I trained in both disciplines, it was Karate that brought me greater joy and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
Sensei P. Kuppusamy executing a kick during a Karate session in Cochin, Kerala, India, in 1980 - one of the rare moments I was able to capture a photograph of him in the act of teaching me.
Standing with my master and mentor, Sensei P. Kuppusamy, at Kurukshetra in 1980 - a cherished photograph that reminds my journey with Karate with this remarkable guru.
Practicing the basic Zenkutsu Dachi stance at Kurukshetra in 1980 - daily sessions, even just a few minutes of repeated stances and punches with back-and-forth movements, played a crucial role in developing essential muscle memory.
My honor to welcome Hanshi Zempo Shimabokuro, Chief of Shorin-ryu Seibukan, during his landmark visit to Cochin, Kerala, India, in 1995. Also present were Sensei Jamal Measara, Sensei P. Kuppusamy, and Sensei P.J Gladwin. This historic occasion marked the first visit of an Okinawan Grand Master to India.
In 1993, I performed a rock-breaking demonstration with a 60-kilogram granite stone in Cochin, Kerala, India. Also present, from left to right, were Sensei T.S. Ivan, Sunil, Spark David, A.K. Jayprakash, Xavier, and the late John Philipose. The granite was shattered by Sensei P.M. Xavier using a heavy hammer.
My visit to Sensei Kim’s dojo in Pittsburgh in 1987 was one of many stops during my travels abroad to various Karate dojos. Each experience broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of Karate as a profound way of life.
Receiving the Shodan Black Belt from the Mayor of Kochi, Mr. A.K. Sheshadri, in 1981 - a moment steeped in both pride and humility. As Sensei P. Kuppusamy looked on and Advocate Kuttan applauded, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment - yet was keenly aware that the journey toward mastering Karate had only just begun.
In 1981, during my Shodan (Black Belt) test, I broke ten unsupported tiles as Sensei Kuppusamy and Sensei Raegoo looked on intently. It was a demanding demonstration - a true test of resilience, precision, and unwavering focus.
Kurukshetra Dojo in 1982, during Sensei Kuppusamy’s visit. At that time, all students were pursuing degrees in Engineering or Master’s programs. I owe a great deal to this dojo – because its students enriched me intellectually and in countless other ways, helping me grow and mature throughout my Karate journey.