Mr Pranav
I remember the first time I walked into the dojo back in 2011, at four years old, about three feet tall, not knowing what I was doing there. However, I quickly fell in love with karate. I have practiced this amazing martial art for more than 10 years now. I was promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt) in May 2017 and was also recognized with the dojo's most prestigious Tatsu award. I continued to practice and received my Nidan (second degree) in 2019.
I have been helping out at the dojo, teaching younger kids since I was a green belt. I am grateful to my instructors for giving me the opportunity to give back, allowing me to share what I have learned with other students. Along with encouraging my brother Sanjit and me personally throughout our karate training, NGMA has also served as an inspiration for my parents as they strive to achieve the rank of Shodan.
To compare with other resourceful martial artists, I have participated in many karate tournaments and won several awards in various categories, including sparring, open-hand forms, and weapon forms. My karate experiences have shaped me into the person I am today and have taught me discipline, perseverance, and most of all, grit. I understood that a black belt is not something you wear, it is something you become. Being a black belt means that you conduct yourself well in and out of the dojo. It means that you demonstrate sincerity, self-control, etiquette, effort, and character at all times. My dojo has taught me to empty my cup. I have practiced for eleven years and there is still so much for me to learn. It is where I find serenity. Karate has been a massive part of my life and will continue to be for years to come.
