It was a proud moment for Apeejay Svran Global School, Faridabad, Sector 21 D when one of its students – Dhruv Pandit of class V clinched a Gold medal in KATA and a Silver medal in KUMITE at the Inter-school Karate Championship held at St Paul’s Diocesan School, New Delhi. Competing against nearly 1,000 participants from schools across Delhi-NCR, Dhruv’s achievement stands out as a symbol of dedication and resilience.
This victory is the fruit of countless early morning practices, intense training sessions, and Dhruv’s unwavering commitment to his craft. Each medal reflects his discipline, hard work, and passion for karate. The school community celebrates his success, which inspires fellow students to pursue their goals with equal dedication and zeal.
Dhruv’s impressive performance also exemplifies the spirit of Apeejay Svran Global School, where students are encouraged to excel and shine in all arenas.
In a candid interview, he shares his karate journey.
How do you feel about winning a gold and a silver medal?
I am happy about this achievement. While I was not sure which medal I would get, I was sure, I would win something
What kind of training did you undergo for the championship?
I practised my Kata moves and kumite fights every day in karate class. I also practised for one hour at home and one hour in class. The difference between Kata and Kumite is that kata is a combination of steps or moves, while Kumite is a fight with an opponent. Kumite is a Japanese word for “fight” in karate.
What were some challenges you faced during preparation?
I had to increase my food intake, as I usually eat very little. I focused on eating protein-rich foods like dal, rice, and eggs. I also had to be careful not to injure myself before the championship, especially when playing in the park during lunch breaks.
Who is your biggest inspiration in karate?
My biggest inspiration came from a karate movie I watched. The movie was amazing and It inspired me to start learning karate.
How do you balance schoolwork with karate training?
My karate classes are on alternate days. I study after school and lunch, then attend karate classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6 pm to 7 pm. I practice for another hour after class and then resume studying.
What advice would you give to students who want to pursue karate?
Work hard and improve your health. Karate requires good health, strength, a focused mindset, and coordination between hands and legs. The sport also teaches the importance of discipline. Without it, it’s difficult to memorise techniques and perform well in championships.
How has your school supported you in your karate journey?
My school has Taekwondo classes, which are similar to karate. Attending these classes gave me extra practice and helped me improve my techniques. The classes also helped me improve my karate technique, including movements and reflexes, as both sports are similar.
What role did your parents play in your preparation?
My parents encouraged me to practice daily and work hard. They told me that to win a Gold medal, I would have to practice seriously every day. Their encouragement helped.