“Kickboxing still lacks recognition in Telangana. No major funding. No sponsorships. No real infrastructure. Most of us train in modest gyms, reuse gear, borrow equipment, and fund our own travel. The Telangana Kickboxing Association is doing its best, but change is slow.

So, what keeps us going?

I’m Harsha Ratnakar, a professional kickboxer since 2012. This year, I won Gold for Telangana at the National Kickboxing Championship 2025. Out of 1,200 athletes from across India, I was the only one from Telangana to bring home gold. Around 60 athletes represented our state, and I carried not just my hopes but theirs. That medal wasn’t just mine. It was a statement.

In February 2025, I won Silver at the India Open International in New Delhi, my third international medal. My opponent from Kazakhstan was heavier, more experienced, and backed by a strong sports system. After the fight, he said, “You’re a warrior.” That moment stayed with me.

I started back in college, inspired by Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. I trained under Coach Suresh Patil without fancy gyms or sponsors—just grit, sweat, and belief. In 2015, I won my first national gold in Delhi. Since then I’ve won silver in 2022, bronze in 2024, and gold and silver this year.

But every medal has cost. Injuries, skipped meals, self-funded travel, and mental grind.

Outside the ring, I’ve also fought to enter public service. I cleared TGPSC Group-1 Prelims three times, appeared for Mains, and also cleared Sub-Inspector recruitment twice, yet missed final merit as sports achievements weren’t counted. Kickboxing isn’t recognised here, so I got where I am purely through hard work. Today, I serve as a Junior Assistant in the Commercial Taxes Dept, Ladbazar Circle, Charminar Division.

So why do we show up?

Because when you’re in that ring, it’s not about who backs you. It’s about heart. And I’ve had plenty, thanks to my family, coach, and every small-town fighter who dares to dream.

You don’t need a crowd to feel like a champion. Sometimes a bruise, a medal, and your opponent’s respect is enough to know you’re already winning.”

— Harsha Ratnakar, Kickboxing Champion

#kickboxing #journey #sports #kickboxingfighter