From cinema to samurai arts: Pawan Kalyan receives rare Kenjutsu honor and is inducted into the Takeda Shingen clan

Actor and Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Pawan Kalyan has achieved a rare international distinction in the field of martial arts with his formal initiation into Kenjutsu, an ancient Japanese sword fighting tradition. This honor recognizes his dedication, discipline and deep commitment to classical martial practices for decades.

Widely known for his work in cinema and public life, Pawan Kalyan has long practiced martial arts alongside his professional commitments. His journey began long before he entered cinema, with rigorous training in karate and other forms of fighting during his early years in Chennai. Over time, his interest expanded beyond physical technique to include the philosophy, discipline, and cultural traditions of Japanese martial arts, particularly those associated with the samurai.

As part of this recognition, Pawan Kalyan received the Fifth Dan from the respected Japanese martial arts organization Sogo Budo Kanri Kai, an honor considered rare for practitioners outside of Japan. In another notable achievement, he became the first Telugu individual to be inducted into the Takeda Shingen clan under Soke Muramatsu Sensei, an honor rarely conferred on non-Japanese practitioners.

He also received the title “Martial Arts Tiger” from the Golden Dragons organization, once again highlighting his position in the global martial arts community. With these honors, Pawan Kalyan joins a select group of Indian figures to receive international recognition in traditional Japanese martial disciplines.

His understanding of martial arts has often translated to the screen. Films such as Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi, Thammudu, Khushi, Annavaram and OG showcased disciplined and authentic fighting styles, helping to introduce structured martial arts to mainstream Indian cinema.

As part of his advanced training, Pawan Kalyan studied under renowned Budo authority Professor Hanshi, Dr. Siddiq Mahmoodi, one of India’s leading exponents of Japanese martial arts. Under his mentorship, he received comprehensive instruction in Kendo, achieving advanced technical skills as well as a deeper philosophical foundation.

On the cinematic front, Pawan Kalyan was last seen in director Sujeeth’s period gangster film They Call Me OG (2025), which also starred Emraan Hashmi, Prakash Raj, Priyanka Arul Mohan and Arjun Das. He will next appear in Ustaad Bhagat Singh.