“Every time my father lent or donated some money to people, I would scold him. ‘Save it for yourself, social work won’t do you any good’ – I’d say. Years later, when I took over his business because of his ill health, I made a few wrong decisions and everything shattered. At that time, many people helped us and didn’t expect anything in return. My dad never doubted my capabilities even then. I was broken, but he was my support system. He would tell me that money would come and go. But never lose hope and try again and again until the success knocks the door.

We came from a small town (Shimoga) and started a new life here in Hyderabad many years ago. What if we lost some money? We can always earn it back – were his words. My wife too gave away her jewellery to help me. It was a tough time. But I didn’t give up. I got back to Karate and martial arts which had always been my passion. Unfortunately, I had to take a break from it after college because of my dad’s health. But I knew that if anything could help me make money, it was karate.

I spent everyday of my high school learning the martial art. I didn’t have the money to take a bus, so I would walk from Chappal Bazaar to Ramanthapur to attend classes. Such was my dedication! However, when I started teaching Karate initially, I realised that a lot of my students were super talented but they didn’t have enough resources to pay fees. I didn’t want them to give up on something they deserved like I did, many years ago. So, I continued to teach students, whether or not they are in the position to pay fees. Today, I am proud to say that several of my students have represented the district and national level championships.

I currently train students at Health League playground Sultan Bazaar and also at Karnataka Sahitya Mandira. I have ends to meet too, but I can’t see another child sacrificing their passion. Instead, I want to give them hope. So if any student has discontinued Karate due to financial difficulties, I am more than happy to support them. I know they have a long way to go if they get the right support. I see myself in each one of them. Although it’s difficult to sustain like this for a longer run, I want to do whatever I can to make that happen.

Through media, I want to request the State Government to kindly encourage the Karate federation and the students in Telangana to facilitate basic training needs so that we can represent our country in National and International tournaments.”

• Featuring Mr. Damodar Nayak, Karate Instructor from Hyderabad