Bhatkal: Two-day National level Open Karate Championship 2018 organized by Shotokan Karate Institute, Bhatkal was inaugurated at Venkataramana Sabha Bhavan here on Saturday December 22.

Bhatkal-Honnavar MLA Sunil Naik inaugurated the tournament by lightning the lamp.

Addressing the gathering, Sunil Naik,  said, "This is for the first time Bhatkal is hosting a national level open Karate championship, where Karate enthusiast from across the country are set to take part in this tournament. “Karate is necessary for self defence especially for women. This helps them to be more courageous enough to face the perverts. The knowledge of Karate will help them to defend themselves. Parents should also see to it that children participate in these activities", he added.

One child from every house should learn Karate for their self defence for the family, he noted.

Chief Guets of the function, Zilla Panchayat President Jayshree Moger said Karate helps to develop self-confidence and self-esteem among girls. "It also gives courage to face challenges. Karate should help us in protecting ourselves".

On the occasion, Several Martial arts were honored with shawl and mementos.

Suresh Naik, president of Shotokan Karate Institute, Bhatkal presided over the function.

Chief refree from Kerala Hanshi KV Ravi, Chief Instructor C Rajan, Bhtakal DySP Valentine D’Souza, Vijayavani Bureau Chief Vivek Mahale, UK Press Association President Radhakrishna Bhat, Vidyanajali Public School Principal Jyothish, Bhatkal Muslim Youth Federation President Imtiyaz Udayawar, Bhatkal Kannada Sahitya President Gangadhar Naik, Kiran Shanbhag and many others were present.