Bhopal: The KAI Senior National Karate Championship–2026 concluded on a high note at LNCT University, Kolar Road, Bhopal, marking the successful culmination of two days of intense competition, discipline, and sporting excellence.
Organised under the aegis of the Karate Association of India (KAI), the championship witnessed participation from around 450 athletes representing 19 states, highlighting the growing strength and popularity of karate across the country.
The closing ceremony was graced by eminent dignitaries including Baikunth Singh (President, KAI), Dr. Pankaj Shukla (Vice President – Karate Association of India & Chairman – South West Karate Association), Yogesh Kalra (General Secretary, KAI), and Jaidev Sharma (President, AKAMP).
Athletes showcased exceptional talent and competitive spirit across Kumite and Kata categories, reflecting high technical standards and dedication.
Final Day Results
Kumite (Women +68 kg): Gold – Deepsaikha (Haryana); Silver – Rija Gumja (Arunachal Pradesh); Bronze – Daisy (Delhi), Jiya Panjita (Chandigarh)
Kumite (Men 75–84 kg): Gold – Harsh Chauhan (Madhya Pradesh); Silver – Vikas (Chandigarh); Bronze – Naseeb (Haryana), Rohit Ahire (Maharashtra)
Senior Female Individual Kata: Gold – T. Abiya (Tamil Nadu); Silver – Titas Das (West Bengal); Bronze – Kajal (Punjab), Lal Rinzali (Mizoram)
Senior Male Individual Kata: Gold – Aditya Dhanraj (West Bengal); Silver – P. Santosh Hamal (Tamil Nadu); Bronze – Dibayayan Mandal (Bihar), Khamminluna (Mizoram)
Addressing the closing ceremony, Dr. Pankaj Shukla, Vice President – Karate Association of India & Chairman – South West Karate Association, said: “It gives me immense pride and satisfaction to witness the successful completion of the KAI Senior National Karate Championship 2026. Over the past two days, we have seen extraordinary discipline, sportsmanship, and dedication from karatekas representing different states of our country.”
Dr Sharma said further, “Karate is not merely a sport; it is a powerful medium for character building, self-discipline, and national pride. The enthusiasm and commitment displayed by all the athletes here truly reflect the growing strength of karate in India.”
He said, “On behalf of the Karate Association of India, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants. Every athlete who stepped on the mat today is a champion of courage, determination, and perseverance.
Pankaj Shukla said further, “I also express my sincere gratitude to the organizers, officials, coaches, volunteers, and supporters whose tireless efforts made this championship a grand success.
Let us continue to promote the spirit of karate across the nation and inspire the youth of India to embrace discipline, strength, and self-confidence through this great martial art.
My best wishes to all the athletes for their future competitions and for bringing greater glory to India in international arenas.”
The successful programm reinforced Bhopal’s position as a key destination for national sporting events while promoting discipline, unity, and youth empowerment through karate.
