Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Sept 4: Renowned karate instructor cum Hony. President of All India Goju Ryu karate do feder federation L. Nageshwar Rao has been award-ed the prestigious ‘Kancho’ award by Grand Master Soke Sir K. Ananthan, President & Chief Instructor of Okinawa Goju Ryu Karate Federation Malaysia. The honour was conferred during a three-day Advanced Karate Training Camp held from August 29 to 31, 2025, in Jamshedpur.
The camp witnessed the participation of 150 colour belt karatekas and 50 black belt karatekas. Recognizing Rao’s vast experience of nearly four decades and his dedication to the martial art, Grand Master Ananthan conferred him the title, making him the second recipient in Asia. The first award was earlier given to Mr. Shalin of Malaysia.
Grand Master Ananthan noted that only individuals with around 40 years of sincere contribution to karate are considered for this honour. He also highlighted Mr. Rao’s long association with the organization since 1993, including four visits to Malaysia for advanced training at the Hombu Dojo.
Rao has received multiple global recognitions in the past. He was awarded the ‘Shihan Go’ title by Japanese Grand Master Kiyotaka Takasaki, 9th Dan, World Chief Instructor, Japan Karate Do Goju Ryu Ohshikai Association, and the ‘Kyoshi’ title by Grand Master Soke Maryo Falcone, 10th Dan, World Chief Instructor, International Hayabusa Goju Ryu Karate Do Association.
Over the years, Rao has trained under several world-renowned karate masters in Okinawa, Japan, including Hanshi Morio Higaonna, Hanshi Kiyotaka Takasaki, Hanshi Dr. Tetsuhiro Hokama, Kancho Zennosuke Hamawaki, Soke Zenshu Toyama, Hanshi Satoshi Toyama, Hanshi Katsuyuki Fukatoshi, and Shihan Hitoshi Fukatoshi, have earned certifications from them.
The recognition of Rao with the Kancho title has brought immense pride to Jamshedpur’s martial arts community and stands as an inspiration for young karatekas across the region.
