Anjana Eravalli has made the country proud by becoming the first Indian player to win back to back gold (kata) and bronze (kumite) medals at the Malaysia Goju-Ryu International Karate Martial Arts Championship. In her career as a karateka, she has won over 250 medals so far, the highest number by any Indian.
Talking about her resounding success, the 22-year-old says, “Victory didn’t come easy; I put in a lot of hard work to defy the odds. Seven hours of practice and preparation a day helped me achieve success and prove my detractors wrong. I shall carry this newfound spirit of confidence into upcoming tournaments.”
Anjana’s performance has qualified her to participate in the Japan Championship to be held this September and the Commonwealth Games to be held in South Africa this November.
Reflecting on her journey so far, the native of Karimnagar says, “I took a Karate course at the age of seven to learn self-defence. I quickly became fascinated by the sport and took it up as my full-time career. Every tournament has been a challenge. My resolve to win is the key to my success. Even today, people tell me that being a girl, I should give up the sport. I only want to silence them with my success.”
A three-time world champion and black belt-holder, Anjana is currently pursuing an M.Tech degree. She says that maintaining a balance between her studies and the sport has been one of the toughest parts of her journey.
“It has been extremely challenging to manage my studies and karate. Over the years, I have worked towards striking a balance between the two. It used to be very hectic, especially during my exams. But my parents and my coach Eppa Srinivas have always ensured that I stay focused and maintain a balance.”
As the Chief Coach of the Telangana State Sports Karate Association, she is involved in training and encouraging the next generation of karate-enthusiasts in the state.
“Over the last 13 years, I have earned recognition and an identity through karate. I am happy to be able to inspire youngsters to take up martial arts. There is an immense amount of talent out there, it just needs to be identified and groomed to produce medal-winners. I want the government to support and encourage karate, just as it supports other sports,” she says.
Anjana is currently preparing for the Thailand Open International Championship.
