When Indian student Akul Malik enrolled at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, little did he know his passion for fitness would lead him to the heart of Chinese martial arts. Drawn by tales of kung fu’s rich heritage, Akul embarked on a journey that transcended physical training, diving deep into the philosophy and spiritual essence of the ancient practice.
With a background that included some exposure to kung fu from an Indian monk trained in China, Akul’s curiosity was piqued. In the summer of 2024, he decided to pursue his interest at its source. He spent two transformative months at Fawang Temple in Dengfeng, Henan Province, studying under the guidance of Master Miaodu.
“Initially, I saw kung fu as just another form of physical exercise,” Akul shared. “But my time at the temple opened my eyes to a deeper, more holistic discipline.”
At Fawang Temple, Akul was introduced to rigorous training routines, including the demanding horse stance exercises. The challenges pushed him beyond his perceived limits, fostering not just physical endurance but also mental resilience. He began to appreciate that kung fu wasn’t merely about mastering combat techniques but about cultivating inner strength and spirit.
“Workouts at the gym shape your physique,” he explained, “but kung fu focuses on the internal. It strengthens the spirit.”
Akul also noted the cultural parallels between India and China during his stay. The shared heritage of Buddhism and the existence of traditional Indian martial arts like Kalaripayattu highlighted the deep connections between the two ancient civilizations.
“Understanding these similarities enriched my experience,” he said. “It fostered a sense of gratitude and appreciation for our cultural connectivity.”
Upon returning to Shanghai, the lessons from Fawang Temple continued to influence Akul’s life. He embraced a newfound discipline, integrating the philosophies of kung fu into his daily routine and studies.
“My journey didn’t end when I left the temple,” Akul reflected. “It’s a lifelong path of growth and learning.”
Akul’s kung fu journey serves as an inspiring example of how stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to profound personal development. For many young people in the Global South and beyond, his story underscores the value of cross-cultural exploration and the pursuit of inner strength.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
