The Bollywood superstar to sponsor kudo tournament winners for training in Philippines, Japan and Thailand
Apart from films, Akshay Kumar strongly feels for the martial arts. On Saturday, the actor attended the 9th Akshay Kumar Invitational Kudo Tournament 2017 in Mumbai, believed to be one of the world's biggest kudo (a Japanese hybrid martial art) tournaments. The event also had actor Katrina Kaif and politician Aditya Thackeray in attendance. A source close to the actor says, "This year onwards, Akshay will be sponsoring the 10 best fighters from the tournament for a month-long training camp in Philippines, Japan and Thailand so that Indian fighters can be on a par with international counterparts."
Kumar with politician Aditya Thackeray and actor Katrina Kaif at the event. The actor praised Kaif, said her determination and confidence were an example to others. Pics/Shadab Khan
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Kumar thanked his parents for helping him become a martial artist. "It's important for every aspirant to respect their parents and have faith in their abilities," he said. He also thanked Thackeray and Kaif for supporting the initiative. Praising his Namaste London co-star, the actor said, "Katrina returned from the US two days ago.
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Kumar in a mock fight with Meenakshi Amma, septuagenarian and a Kalaripayattu expert
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When I invited her to the event, she immediately agreed. When she started out as a Bollywood actor, she didn't know a word in Hindi. Today, she is one of the biggest stars around. Her journey is an example of how determination and confidence can take you places."
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