Reflects the Enduring Spirit of Karate-Do
Marking 46 years of excellence since its formation in 1980, the Rajesh Thakkar Karate Academy (RTKA) proudly hosted its 45th Goju-Ryu Karate Championship at the prestigious P.J. Hindu Gymkhana, Mumbai. The championship also commemorated the rst anniversary of the RTK Foundation, reinforcing RTKA’s enduring commitment to preserving the values of karate-do while em powering students through discipline, confidence & perseverance. The two-day championship brought together over 350 karatekas from across RTKA dojos, spanning all age groups & belt categories. The championship was structured to balance well curated events for junior students with highly competitive categories for senior karatekas. Junior participants were provided a safe & structured platform to experience competitive karate-do, helping them develop confidence, composure & match awareness. Several young karatekas, some competing on a large stage for the first time, demon strated impressive focus & enthusiasm, Educator and Naturopath. Sensei Ishika Thite, Professional MMA Fighter and Coach. Dr. Cheetah Yejnesha Shetty, Producer and Action Choreographer. Shri Suneel Gautam, Director, RTK Foundation highlighted the Foundation’s efforts to extend the benefits of karate-do to under privileged girls through school initiatives rooted in discipline, confidence, and dignity. Shri Navroz Billimoria, Principal, B.D. Somani International School. reflecting the strong foundation laid through regular training. Senior categories witnessed intense and closely contested bouts, with participants displaying advanced techniques, speed, tactical awareness, and mental resilience. The quality of competition highlighted the rigorous preparation and sustained effort required at higher levels, reinforcing the championship’s role as an important exposure and learning platform within the RTKA ecosystem. Standout Performances: In the White, Yellow, and Orange Belt categories, Shahan Bathena, from Byculla Dojo under Shandai Manan Parekh, and Anvi Kolge, from Andheri Dojo under Sensei Netra Bahadur Rawal, stood out with composed. In the Light Blue and Dark Blue category (Under 8 years), Sara Bhosle, training under Sensei Sunny Gandhi from Byculla Dojo, impressed with her condence, demonstrating maturity beyond her years. The Light Blue, Dark Blue (9 years and above), and Green Belt category saw Veer Mehta, from Byculla Dojo under Shandai Mahir Khimawat, delivered a dominant performance. In the Purple and Brown Belt division, Ahaan Gupta, training under Sensei Dakshesh Shah from Byculla Dojo, emerged as a standout performer. The Black Belt category witnessed a strong and composed performance by Sensei Sunny Gandhi, representing the Hombu Dojo under the guidance of Kyoshi Sensei Rajesh Thakkar, with technical depth, and high-level competitive readiness. The championship was honoured by the presence of an esteemed gathering of dignitaries and guests: Dr. Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner, Brahin Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Dr. Mickey Mehta, Global Leading Holistic Health Guru. Shri Bharat Dabholkar, Writer and Director. Shimada Megumi, Consul, Consulate General of Japan, Mumbai. Hanshi Masamitsu Kudaka, 8th Dan, Japan. Smt. Madhoo Shah, Actress. Shri Vivek Kothari, Director, KBK Group. Shri Ravi Dixit, Yoga The championship was ably supported by the office bearers of P.J. Hindu Gymkhana, whose cooperation and commitment were instrumental in the smooth conduct of the event: Shri Leroy D’sa, President, P.J. Hindu Gymkhana, expressed pride in hosting RTKA and highlighted the joy of seeing young children embrace karate do at the Gymkhana. Shri Jignesh Sanghvi, Joint Hon. Secretary, P.J. Hindu Gymkhana, who shared that karate-do represents a way of life. Everyone must do karate for good health & discipline. PJ Hindu Gymkhana’s continued support has played a vital role in enabling RTKA to uphold the highest standards in hosting its flagship championships. The event also marked the first anniversary of the RTK Foundation, an initiative dedicated to expanding access to karate-do while fostering confidence, discipline, and character development, particularly among underprivileged communities
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