Bhopal, March 23, 2026 — The KAI Senior National Karate Championship–2026 began on a spectacular and high-energy note on March 23 at LNCT University, Bhopal, marking a proud moment for the city and the sporting fraternity of Madhya Pradesh.
The championship witnessed a grand inaugural ceremony, graced by esteemed dignitaries including Shri Vishwas Sarang (Hon’ble Minister – Cooperative, Sports & Youth Welfare Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh), Ashish Usha Agarwal (State Media Incharge, BJP, MP), Shri Baikunth Singh (President, KAI), Dr. Pankaj Shukla (Vice President, KAI), and Shri Yogesh Kalra (General Secretary, KAI).
The ceremony was also attended by State President Jaidev Sharma, Chairman Referee Commission Amit Gupta, along with officials from various participating states, adding to the prestige of the event.
The inaugural ceremony was highlighted by the traditional lamp lighting by Hon’ble Minister Vishwas Sarang, symbolizing the spirit of sportsmanship, discipline, and unity.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering of athletes, coaches, and officials, Minister Vishwas Sarang delivered a powerful and motivating message:
“Karate is not merely a sport; it is a way of life that instills discipline, resilience, and inner strength. Each one of you standing here today is a symbol of dedication and hard work. Remember, true victory is not just about winning medals but about pushing your limits, respecting your opponents, and emerging as a stronger individual. I encourage all participants to compete with passion, uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, and strive to bring glory not just to your states but to the entire nation. The skills and values you gain here will shape you into leaders of tomorrow.”
The two-day championship, held from March 23–24, saw participation from approximately 450 elite athletes from 19 states, competing in Kumite and Kata categories across multiple weight divisions as per World Karate Federation standards.
Sharing his vision and motivating the participants, Dr. Pankaj Shukla stated:
“This championship is not just a competition; it is a platform where character, discipline, and determination are forged. Every athlete stepping onto the mat carries not just personal ambition but the pride of their state and the spirit of the nation. I urge all participants to embrace this opportunity to learn, grow, and challenge themselves beyond their limits. Karate teaches us humility in victory and strength in defeat values that stay with us for life. Through initiatives like ‘Shringar Bane Hathiyar,’ we are also committed to empowering women, encouraging them to recognize their inner strength and stand fearless in every situation.”
The event was conducted under the expert technical supervision of Shihan Amit Gupta and Shihan Paritosh Sharma, with seamless on-ground coordination by Shihan Jaydev Sharma. Excellent arrangements ensured the event was conducted smoothly and successfully.
The championship concluded with electrifying performances, reinforcing Bhopal’s emergence as a key destination for national sporting events and celebrating the true spirit of discipline, strength, and unity
