By S. Kenneth Shishir

Muay Thai or Thai Boxing is a combat sport of Thailand that uses stand-up striking along with various clinching techniques known as the “art of eight limbs” since it is characterised by the combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shins. Muay Thai became widespread internationally in the 20th century, when practitioners from Thailand began competing in kick-boxing, mixed rules matches, as well as matches under Muay Thai rules around the world.

Developed over hundreds of years, the ancient martial art of Muay Thai is known for its tremendous power, maximum efficiency and raw simplicity. With Muay Thai gaining popularity, many are learning this art for self-defense while some to discipline themselves. The Academy of Martial Science at Krishnamurthypuram, Mysuru, affiliated to Muay Thai India National Federation, Muay Thai and Muayboran Sports Association, Thailand, among others has been training many in Muay Thai under Kru. Vikram as Head Coach.

One such celebrity youth, who came all the way from Bengaluru, stayed in a PG accommodation three years and got trained by Kru. Vikram, is Surya Sagar, son of well-known Sandalwood actor Arun Sagar of Kannada Bigg Boss-fame and Meera Sagar. And Surya went on to win the Muay Thai Professional Bout at Chiang Mai in Thailand this year. Star of Mysore caught up with Surya for a brief chat. Excerpts…

Star of Mysore (SOM): There are many martial art forms taught across the country, why did you choose Muay Thai?

Surya Sagar: Muay Thai is the real way of fighting that is gaining popularity and it is the most effective striking art in the world. Muay Thai has been tested in competitions and real-life situations for hundreds of years. It is fast, efficient, and powerful as it can be. Its consistent testing in combat between highly skilled practitioners has developed every aspect of the art to an extremely high level. Hence I got trained in this art.

SOM: Why did you choose to get trained in Mysuru?

Surya: Actually, it was my father who saw Kru. Vikram at the ringside during a tournament in Bengaluru and approached him. He told me to get trained under Kru. Vikram and I readily agreed. I shifted from Bengaluru and stayed at a Paying Guest accommodation in Krishnamurthypuram for over two-and-a-half-years just.

SOM: Tell us about your training schedule and diet?

Surya: Initially, I began training for two hours in the morning; strength and conditioning for two hours in the evening. Training time increased gradually.

As Muay Thai is specifically designed to promote the level of fitness and toughness required for ring competition even for recreational practitioners, running, jumping rope and shadowboxing provided an aerobic workout to prepare for more intense workouts. With continuous training, Muay Thai improved the strength, dexterity and cardiovascular performance, which helped me to perform better. During my training period, my diet was a combination of Keto and High protein.

SOM: Your views on Mysuru and how did you feel after winning the Professional Bout?

Surya: Mysuru is just awesome, an amazing place with good atmosphere when compared to Bengaluru. People here are very friendly and helpful. I felt very good after winning the bout and at the same time I felt that I have to train more. My parents felt very proud and are now pushing me forward to achieve more.

Achievements in Muay Thai (Welter Weight Division)

• Muay Thai Professional Bout winner- 2018 in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Muay Thai National Pro-am Champion-2018 in Bengaluru
• Muay Thai Federation Cup Silver Medal-2017
• Muay Thai National Champion-2017 in Bengaluru
• Muay Thai National Champion-2017 in Bengaluru
• Muay Thai Karnataka State Champion-2017 in Bengaluru
• Muay Thai Gala Gold Medallist-2016 in Bengaluru
• Junior Amateur Muay Thai National Championship Silver Medalist-2015
• Muay Thai Dasara and Rajyotsava Cup Gold Medallist-2015 in Mysuru
• At present, Surya is preparing for World Muay Thai Championship to be held at Korat in Thailand during March 2019.