In the heartlands of Karnataka, where tradition meets transformation, one man has carved a remarkable path through the martial arts world—not just as a fighter, but as a visionary. Meet Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao, a name now synonymous with discipline, determination, and development in Indian martial arts.
From his early days in the coastal town of Puttur, Rao’s journey began at the age of nine with Shito Ryu Karate. Three years later, he refined his skills in Shotokan Karate, only to discover his true calling at 16—Olympic-style Taekwondo, under the guidance of Master Subhash Yadav. What began as passion soon transformed into purpose.
The Making of a Mentor
In 2012, Rao took a bold step: founding Rao’s Yuva Academy in the village of Kakati, Belagavi. What started as a local effort to train rural youth has grown into a nationally recognized, ISO 9001:2015-certified institution. Affiliated with the Taekwondo Federation of India, the academy now serves as a breeding ground for future champions.
A 4th Dan Black Belt holder from Kukkiwon – World Taekwondo Headquarters, Rao is more than an expert practitioner—he’s a builder of systems, a shaper of institutions, and a transformer of lives.
Guiding the Game Beyond the Mat
Master Rao wears many hats. As a national-level referee, tournament director, and head of technical operations for top-tier competitions, he has played a key role in standardizing and elevating Taekwondo in India. His impact extends to organizing and officiating events such as the CBSE South Zone Championships, SGFI Trials, and DASARA CM Cup.
Behind every successful tournament is Rao’s silent leadership—referee training programs, digital scoring setups, flawless scheduling—testaments to his meticulous planning and technical foresight.
Taekwondo in Education and Rural India
Between 2014 and 2017, Rao pioneered the inclusion of Taekwondo in the curriculum of Rani Channamma University, offering students both academic and Olympic recognition. But his mission didn’t stop at universities. In 2022, he launched the KARAVALI Taekwondo Championship, extending access to Karnataka’s coastal belt. The Konkan Taekwondo Development Championship, introduced in 2024-25, further brought the sport into Maharashtra’s Malvan and Konkan regions.
Social Impact: When Kicks Lead to Change
Through the Yakshit Yuva Foundation, Rao champions change beyond the mat. This nonprofit organization offers free self-defense camps, mental health awareness, and scholarships. With over 650 medals won by trainees, the Foundation is living proof of how sport can transform underprivileged lives into tales of triumph.
Honors that Reflect a Deeper Impact
Rao’s accolades reflect not just his skill but his service. Among them:
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International Icon Award 2025 (Sports & Social Service)
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World Sports Star Award (2022)
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Inductions into the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame USA & Taekwondo Hall of Fame India
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Recognition by Karnataka’s Water Resources Ministry
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Listed in the International World Records Book
A Government Servant, A Doctoral Scholar, A National Mentor
While serving in the Government sector, Rao continues to train, coach, and mentor national and international athletes. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Sports Administration & Management from East Bridge University, Paris, he balances service, scholarship, and sport with unmatched dedication.
The Mantra Behind the Mission
“Taekwondo is not just a sport. It’s a life school. It teaches you how to rise after every fall. My mission is to make sure every child, regardless of background, experiences that transformation,” says Rao.
Conclusion: More Than Medals
In Master Shreepada R. Rao’s story, martial arts is just the medium. The real message? Empowerment, inclusion, and lifelong impact. From local mats to global recognition, his journey isn’t just about mastering kicks—it’s about kicking down barriers and building up the next generation.
He’s not just training fighters.
He’s shaping citizens.