Hanshi Shaswat Kumar Becomes First Indian to Earn 10th Dan Black Belt from Japan
Martial Arts Milestone: Founder of Senkoukai Karate Also Completes Historic 100-Man Kumite with 108 Opponents, Receives Global Recognition.
New Delhi, India — In a groundbreaking moment for Indian martial arts, Hanshi Shaswat Kumar, founder of Senkoukai Karate, has etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian to be awarded the 10th Dan Black Belt by the All Japan Martial Arts Organization. The honor was personally conferred by Soke Yoshimoto Tanaka, president of the organization, who recognized Kumar’s lifetime of dedication, excellence, and global contributions to traditional karate.
Kumar’s historic recognition doesn’t end there. On February 9, 2025, he became the first Indian martial artist to successfully complete the grueling 100-Man Kumite, an extraordinary test of endurance and spirit in which he fought 108 opponents consecutively in India. This monumental feat was officially acknowledged by Grand Master Ryogo Ito (Japan) and witnessed by prominent karate authorities, including Sensei Banavath Balu and Sensei Ch. Lingamaiah, and Takayuki Asami.
According to a certificate issued by Grand Master Ryogo Ito, the achievement represents “unmatched endurance, skill, and spirit,” and places Hanshi Shaswat Kumar among the world’s most elite martial artists. His name now joins a prestigious list of global martial artists on the international 100-Man Kumite compilation, where he stands as the 33rd practitioner worldwide.
Hanshi Kumar also received formal recognition from Grand Master Masaki Watanabe, 10th Dan Black Belt and President of the International Bujutsu Karate Association (IBKA), Japan, which granted full autonomy to Senkoukai Karate as an independent style. The World Senkoukai Karate Organization (WSKO), led by Kumar, is now authorized to issue black belt certifications from Shodan (1st Dan) to Judan (10th Dan), as per Japanese standards.
Having trained under legends such as Ryogo Ito, Masaki Watanabe, and Yoshimoto Tanaka, Kumar has spent over two decades promoting traditional karate in its purest form. Through his Shreyanavi Charitable Foundation, he also extends free online karate training, emphasizing self-discipline, fitness, and empowerment for youth and underprivileged communities.
This rare 10th Dan honor and his pioneering role in completing the 100-Man Kumite are a testament to Hanshi Shaswat Kumar’s personal mastery and a moment of immense pride for India and Asia’s martial arts fraternity. His legacy continues to inspire generations with his mantra of strength, discipline, and humility.
