Shillong (Meghalaya), Oct 23: The 31st State Karate Championship 2025 kicked off today at the JN Indoor Stadium here, with 512 karatekas from eight districts gathering to showcase their skills. Organised by the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association (AMKA) with the support of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, the three-day event promises to be an exciting display of martial arts prowess.
The championship began with a poignant minute’s silence to pay tribute to AMKA founder Stephan Leong, whose death anniversary coincides with the event. Commissioner and Secretary Matsiewdor War Nongbri , the chief guest, commended AMKA for its remarkable achievement of hosting the championship for 31 consecutive years. She also imparted valuable advice to the young karatekas, emphasising the importance of balancing sports with education and personal well-being.
The participants have been divided into categories based on age and weight and will compete in kumite (sparring) and kata (choreographed movement demonstration) events. With many of the karatekas having already proven their mettle at regional and national levels, the championship is expected to be a closely contested and thrilling affair.
