I began learning Karate in 1982, and I vividly remember our village nestled beside the renowned Mahaweli River in the Pallakele area of Kandy. I was fortunate to observe Karate being practiced by my uncles and my father when I was a seven-year-old child. At that time, the practice was not well-known and was often conducted in secrecy by the practitioners. Karate was not merely a sport or practice; it was a way of life, instilling a warrior’s mindset within its discipline.
As I grew, I had the privilege of training under one of the most esteemed Karate instructors of my life, Master Daya Samarasekera, the Chief Karate Instructor of the Sri Lanka National Karate Organization (SLNKO). He also served as the chief instructor for the Army, Army Women’s Corps, Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy, Military Academy, National Academy for Martial Arts, and Nachifu International. Master Daya Samarasekera is also recognized as an All-Island Justice of Peace.
Continuously attending Karate classes under K.P.D. Susantha Perera, another great master under Daya Samarasekera, I achieved my Black Belt graduation and won several national championships in open fighting tournaments, excelling in both Kata and Kumite.
However, Karate is more than just a martial art; it’s a way of life. This narrative follows the evolution of a Karate practitioner, from a novice seeking self-defense to a master whose life embodies the principles of this ancient art. The true essence of Karate lies in its ability to transform lives, transcending the physical and becoming a guiding philosophy.
The Foundation: Discipline and Perseverance
A karate master’s journey begins with the fundamentals. Each punch, kick, and block is practiced meticulously, not just for technique, but to cultivate discipline. This discipline transcends the martial arts, becoming a life skill that teaches the importance of consistent effort and dedication to continuous improvement. The journey presents challenges, but overcoming them builds perseverance, a quality invaluable in every aspect of life.
Beyond Technique: Self-Awareness and Confidence
As karate practice deepens, the focus shifts from mastering techniques to understanding the underlying philosophy. This journey of self-discovery extends beyond the dojo. It’s about mastering one’s emotions, channeling energy, and maintaining composure under pressure. This mastery fosters a robust self-confidence, empowering individuals to face life’s challenges with a clear mind and a resolute spirit.
Respect and Humility: The Way of the Warrior
The ethos of karate is steeped in respect and humility. It teaches one to honor oneself, instructors, and peers. The dojo becomes a microcosm of society, where senior students learn the value of humility, recognizing that learning is a lifelong pursuit. This sense of mutual respect and humility fosters a community spirit that extends beyond the dojo walls, influencing how one interacts with the world at large.
Lessons Beyond the Dojo
The lessons of karate are not confined to the training mat. They permeate every aspect of a practitioner’s life. The discipline translates into effective time management and goal-oriented living. The perseverance developed in the dojo becomes a tenacious attitude in overcoming life’s hurdles. The self-awareness and confidence gained through practice forge a strong personal identity, enabling one to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and resilience.
A Never-Ending Quest: Continuous Learning and Growth
For the devoted karate master, the quest for excellence is a lifelong pursuit. There is always a new technique to perfect, a deeper insight to attain. This commitment to continuous learning keeps the mind agile and the spirit young. It turns the pursuit of self-betterment into a lifelong mission, ensuring that the master remains dynamic and ever-evolving.
Your Karate Journey Awaits
Your own karate journey, regardless of your experience level, has the potential to be a source of personal enrichment. It’s an invitation to embrace the challenges, celebrate the triumphs, and let the wisdom gained in the dojo enhance your life in every way imaginable. So step onto the mat, and let the transformative power of karate guide you on a path of continuous growth and discovery.
”Never hurt innocent but destroy enemies even without thinking of them. Power is not a blessing its and learned skill to protect innocent”
-by Palitha Ariyarathna
Written by Palitha Ariyarathna, Certified Karate Instructor and Boot Camp Specialist-
(B.D.F.S)
Black Belt First Dan
Bio: Palitha Ariyarathna combines over two decades of professional expertise in martial arts, fitness, and aquatic adventures. As a certified Karate Instructor, he instills discipline and self-defense skills. His experience as a Boot Camp Specialist is complemented by his proficiency as a Scuba Diver and Swimming Instructor, where he dives into the depths of aquatic training.Palitha’s passion for adventurous water sports adds a splash of excitement to his comprehensive fitness programs. His holistic approach ensures readers gain insights into physical health, mental resilience, and the thrill of water sports.
Athi Vishesha By Derana TV Srilanka
Tuesday
Athivishesha is a series of action based documentaries on Sri Lankan dare devils who will perform unimaginable feats. In all cases, they demonstrate strength and resolve that we, as viewers can only begin to imagine. It puts life into perspective and makes us realize that our own day-to-day moans and complaints are utterly trivial by comparison to what extremes these extra ordinary people go to. Don’t miss this extra ordinary programme on Extraordinary People.