Mysuru: Thousands of Karetakas from various parts of the city congregated at the University of Mysore (UoM) Hockey Grounds at Sports Pavilion and demonstrated karate as part of World Karate Day celebrations organised by Mysore Karate Association, here on Sunday.

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Chamundeshwari MLA G.T. Devegowda elaborated about the need to learn karate in the present days for self-defence against the anti-social elements.

“There is a need to include karate as a part of curriculum. Karatekas from Mysuru should not only win more medals in the upcoming Dasara Karate Championship but also make Mysuru proud by winning National and International Championships,” he added.

Praise for MP Yaduveer Wadiyar: Devegowda also took the opportunity to praise Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar stating that he had proved his critics wrong who had expressed their doubts over a member of the Mysore Royal Family opting to contest the Polls.

“Many had said Yaduveer Wadiyar, post his election, would be restricted to his Palace and will not be available for the general public. However, he has proved his critics wrong as he is seen touring places both in Mysuru and Kodagu districts to solve the issues being faced by the people. He has been meeting Union Ministers to ensure the works related to Constituency is expedited. People have been satisfied with his pro-development stand,” he said.

Earlier, inaugurating the event, MP Yaduveer Wadiyar said, karate being a disciplined sport, played crucial role in self-defence at times of trouble

and added that teaching karate to girls was the need of the hour.

Additional Superintendent Police C. Mallick, UoM Department of Physical Education (DPE) Director Dr. C. Venkatesh, former Deputy Director Dr. P. Krishnaiah, JD(S) Leader Suresh, Mysore Karate Association President S. Sunil Kumar, Secretary Bharthi Anand and Sosale Siddaraju were present.