Kolkata, August 2026: By the Grace of Almighty God, Kolkata witnessed one of the most spectacular martial arts events in the country’s history as the 10th International Open Karate Championship – Indian Challenger’s Cup 2026 concluded with overwhelming success at Netaji Indoor Stadium.
Organised by the Karate Do Association of Bengal under the dynamic leadership of Hanshi Premjit Sen, the championship brought together more than 6,000 participants, including athletes, coaches, referees, judges, officials and supporters from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates and South Africa, making it one of the largest international karate events ever organised in India.
The championship created several new milestones with 23 international-standard tatami, over 350 qualified referees and judges, an impressive elevated competition arena, live entertainment, and ₹5 lakh in cash awards, setting a new benchmark for martial arts championships in the country.
The prestigious event was graced by several eminent dignitaries including Dr. Indranil Khan, Hon’ble Minister, Government of West Bengal; Shri Samik Bhattacharya, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and President, Bharatiya Janata Party, West Bengal; Shri Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Minister of State, Municipal Affairs & Urban Development, Government of West Bengal; Mr. Dipanjan Chakraborty, Hon’ble Member of the Legislative Assembly, Uttarpara Constituency; Shri Sumitro Chatterjee, Hon’ble Member of the Legislative Assembly, Naihati Constituency; Mr. Katsunori Ashida, Hon’ble Deputy Consul General of Japan in Kolkata; Ms. Santi Das, IPS, Deputy Commanding Officer, State Armed Police, 2nd Battalion, West Bengal Police; Professor Manoshi Roychoudhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group; and several other distinguished guests from the fields of government, sports, diplomacy and industry.
One of the most memorable moments of the championship was the presentation of the Honorary Black Belt to Shri Samik Bhattacharya in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards youth development, sports promotion and his unwavering encouragement of martial arts.
Another unforgettable highlight was when Dr. Indranil Khan stepped onto the tatami and enthusiastically performed karate techniques alongside legendary karate master Hanshi Premjit Sen. His sporting spirit and active participation drew thunderous applause from thousands of athletes and spectators, symbolising the Government’s commitment towards the promotion of sports and youth development in West Bengal.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Samik Bhattacharya said:
“I am truly overwhelmed to witness such a magnificent karate championship in Kolkata. Seeing thousands of young karatekas performing with such discipline, dedication and passion is an unforgettable experience. This championship reflects the tremendous potential of martial arts in shaping our youth. I wholeheartedly appreciate the relentless efforts of Hanshi Premjit Sen, whose vision, dedication and tireless work have elevated karate in West Bengal and India to remarkable heights. His contribution is inspiring a new generation of champions.”
Dr. Indranil Khan remarked:
“It is a matter of immense pride to witness such a grand international sporting event in West Bengal. The scale of participation, the exceptional organisation and the enthusiasm of thousands of young karatekas clearly demonstrate the growing strength of karate in our state. Hanshi Premjit Sen’s unwavering devotion, selfless service and relentless commitment towards the development of karate deserve the highest appreciation. His leadership has created a world-class platform for young athletes and has significantly enhanced Bengal’s reputation on the international sporting map.”
The Tournament Chairman, Shri Uma Shankar, said:
“The event has been a grand success, and karate has reached these remarkable heights through the tireless efforts of Hanshi Premjit Sen. I have been associated with the Indian Challenger’s Cup since its inception. Although, owing to political circumstances under the previous government, I had to remain in the background, my mentorship and guidance for the championship continued throughout, and my advice was always valued by him. Premjit Sen’s unwavering dedication, vision and relentless efforts towards the development of karate are truly commendable. His commitment has played a pivotal role in taking the sport to unprecedented heights.”
Expressing his gratitude, Hanshi Premjit Sen, President of the Karate Do Association of Bengal, said:
“Our mission has always been to promote karate by providing world-class opportunities to every athlete. The Indian Challenger’s Cup has now become much more than a championship—it is a global platform that unites nations through discipline, respect, friendship and excellence. I sincerely thank the Government of West Bengal, all distinguished dignitaries, international delegations, referees, coaches, volunteers, sponsors and every participant whose support has made this historic championship an unprecedented success. Together, we will continue working to make India a global powerhouse in karate.”
With record participation, international representation and impeccable organisation, the 10th International Open Karate Championship – Indian Challenger’s Cup 2026 has firmly established Kolkata as one of Asia’s leading destinations for international karate and has set a new benchmark for martial arts events in India.
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