Kolkata Gears Up to Host Asia’s Biggest Karate Spectacle
Indian Challenger’s Cup – 10th International Karate Championship Announces ₹5 Lakh Prize Purse
31st July – 2nd August 2026 | Netaji Indoor Stadium, Kolkata, India
Kolkata is preparing to welcome the finest karate talent from India and across the globe as the Indian Challenger’s Cup – 10th International Karate Championship returns with its landmark 10th edition. Scheduled from 31st July to 2nd August 2026 at the iconic Netaji Indoor Stadium, the championship promises to be one of the most prestigious and competitive karate events ever organized in India.
The championship will witness the participation of leading teams from across the country alongside international contingents, creating a world-class competitive environment. Adding further prestige to the event, teams representing India’s Paramilitary Forces and other premier institutions will also compete, ensuring an exceptional standard of competition.
With a ₹5,00,000 cash prize fund, the championship stands among the richest karate tournaments in India, reflecting the organizers’ commitment to recognizing sporting excellence and motivating athletes to perform at their highest level.
At the heart of this remarkable sporting movement is Premjit Sen, President of the Karate Do Association of Bengal, whose unwavering dedication has played a transformative role in the development of karate in India. Through his visionary leadership, countless athletes have received opportunities that once seemed impossible. By consistently bringing elite Indian teams and international competitors to the same platform, he has enabled young Indian karatekas to test themselves against the very best without leaving the country.
Over the years, many players nurtured through his initiatives have gone on to represent India with distinction at national and international championships. His relentless efforts have earned him recognition as one of the driving forces behind the growth of competitive karate in the country, inspiring thousands of young athletes to dream bigger and aim higher.
Sharing his vision, Premjit Sen said:
“The Indian Challenger’s Cup is not just a tournament—it is a platform that transforms dreams into achievements. Every athlete deserves the opportunity to compete against the best. By bringing India’s strongest teams, international champions and elite institutional and paramilitary players under one roof, we are creating an environment where our athletes can learn, grow and prepare for the world’s biggest stages. My dream has always been to make international-level competition accessible to every deserving player, and this championship is a step towards building the future of Indian karate.”
As the championship celebrates its 10th edition, it represents not only a decade of sporting excellence but also a decade of inspiring young athletes, promoting international friendship and elevating the standard of karate in India. The event is expected to attract thousands of athletes, coaches, referees, officials, sports enthusiasts and media representatives from India and abroad, making it one of the biggest martial arts festivals of the year.
The organizers warmly invite the media, sports lovers and the public to witness this historic championship and support the athletes who will shape the future of Indian karate.





