Premjit Sen
Premjit Sen is a renowned Indian martial artist, referee, coach, and sports administrator. He currently serves as the President of the Karate Do Association of Bengal (KAB), Chairman of the Referee Commission of the Karate India Organisation (KIO), and is a recognized A-Grade Referee and Judge of the World Karate Federation (WKF) and Asian Karate Federation (AKF). Widely respected in the martial arts community, he is the first and only Bengali to achieve the prestigious WKF A-Grade status.
Through his leadership, Sen has played a pivotal role in the promotion of karate across India, focusing on athlete development, women’s self-defence programs, and youth empowerment. His contributions have earned him multiple accolades, including the Times Man of the Year and the WKF Bronze Pin.
Early Life and Background
Premjit Sen developed an interest in martial arts from a young age while growing up in Bengal. His passion for karate led him to pursue rigorous training, not only mastering combat techniques but also studying the philosophical aspects of martial arts. For Sen, karate became more than a sport; it evolved into a discipline that guided his values of consistency, perseverance, and community service.
He often emphasizes that his journey was never about personal achievements alone but about inspiring others to embrace discipline as the foundation of success.
Career
Refereeing and International Recognition
One of Sen’s defining achievements is his appointment as an A-Grade Referee and Judge for both the World Karate Federation (WKF) and the Asian Karate Federation (AKF). This recognition placed him among the top referees in the world and marked a historic milestone for Bengal. His officiating at high-level international events has brought visibility to Indian karate on the global stage. In recognition of his exemplary service, he was awarded the Bronze Pin by the WKF, one of the highest honours given to referees.
Leadership Roles
Sen’s leadership extends to several key positions:
- President of the Karate Do Association of Bengal (KAB)
- Chairman of the Referee Commission, Karate India Organisation (KIO)
Under his guidance, Bengal has become a hub of karate excellence, producing athletes who have achieved success nationally and internationally.
Contributions to Karate Development
Sen has been instrumental in promoting karate as both a competitive sport and a tool for empowerment. His initiatives include:
- **Women’s Self-Defence Training** – Conducting workshops to equip women and young girls with self-defence skills.
- **Youth Employment** – Supporting athletes in securing government and private sector jobs under sports quotas.
- **Event Organization** – Leading major karate tournaments, such as the Indian Challengers Cup, which nurtures emerging talent.
These contributions reflect his vision of using martial arts as a vehicle for social development and empowerment.
Recognition and Awards
Premjit Sen’s work has been acknowledged through numerous awards:
- Times Man of the Year (2022)
- Times Bengal Icon (2023)
- Bronze Pin by the World Karate Federation
His community-driven initiatives and leadership have also been highlighted by Indian media outlets.
Philosophy and Vision
Sen believes that karate is not only about competition but also about building character, discipline, and resilience. His guiding philosophy is: “Discipline is the foundation of success, and consistency transforms potential into excellence.”
This outlook influences his mentoring approach, inspiring young athletes to pursue both personal and professional growth.
Impact and Legacy
Over the years, Sen has trained and mentored many students who have achieved national and international recognition. Several of his students have secured jobs through sports quotas, underscoring karate’s role as a career path. His women’s empowerment initiatives have significantly impacted communities across Bengal and India, instilling confidence and independence.
Upcoming Projects
Sen is spearheading the 10th Edition of the Indian Challengers Cup, a prestigious event that attracts athletes from across the nation and abroad. This championship is seen as a stepping stone for young karatekas aspiring for international platforms.
Personal Life
Outside of his official roles, Premjit Sen maintains a strong presence on social media, sharing motivational messages, karate updates, and event highlights. He continues to use digital platforms to spread awareness about karate’s relevance in modern society.