Indian Karate style ‘Senkoukai’ gets official recognition from Japan’s IBKA
In a historic milestone, Senkoukai Karate, founded by Indian martial arts legend Soke Hanshi Shaswat Kumar, has received official international recognition from Japan’s International Bujutsu Karate Association (IBKA), becoming the first Indian-developed Karate style formally acknowledged by Japan.
Published Date - 1 November 2025, 09:43 AM
HYDERABAD: It is a great moment for the martial arts exponents of India with Senkoukai Karate, founded by the Legend of Indian Karate, Soke Hanshi Shaswat Kumar (10th Dan Black Belt), receiving official international recognition from Japan’s International Bujutsu Karate Association (IBKA), headquartered in Sapporo.
The recognition was issued by Grandmaster Masaki Watanabe (10th Dan), Founder of IBKA Japan, who praised Hanshi Shaswat Kumar as one of his most dedicated and disciplined students, appreciating his lifelong contribution to promoting the true spirit of Karate across the world.
This marks the first time in Indian history that a Karate style developed in India has been formally recognized by Japan. Senkoukai Karate now holds full authority to conduct belt examinations from 1st Dan to 10th Dan, officially approved by IBKA Japan.
Senkoukai Karate is a completely independent Karate style. It follows its own rules, syllabus, and grading system, all designed and established by Soke Hanshi Shaswat Kumar. The style does not follow or come under the control of any other Karate organization, association, federation, or world council. No external rules or systems are applicable to Senkoukai Karate or to Hanshi Shaswat Kumar its authority and identity are fully self-governed and internationally recognized.
Known for its powerful full-contact techniques, discipline, and unique philosophy, Senkoukai Karate stands as a proud representation of India on the world martial arts stage.
The officially recognized Katas include:
Kyu Grading Katas:
Kenshin Shodan, Kenshin Nidan, Kenshin Sandan, Kenshin Yondan, Kenshin Godan,
Tetsuki Shodan, Tetsuki Nidan, Tetsuki Sandan, Tetsuki Yondan, Tetsuki Godan.
Dan Grading Katas:
Sengo, Raisen, Fuzan, Enka, Rekku, Kejin, Bakuran, Kuzetsu, Jingen, Torai.
Blending the essence of Shotokan, Kyokushin, and Combat Martial Arts, Senkoukai Karate, under the leadership of the Legend of Indian Karate, Soke Hanshi Shaswat Kumar, continues to grow rapidly inspiring students across the globe to embrace self-defense, discipline, and the true spirit of Karate.