Joining Year: 1982
Exp: 44 Years
Karate Degree: 6th Degree
Arnis Degree: 5th Degree
Earned 1st Dan Black Belt in 1995
In 1995, after years of dedicated practice, he successfully passed a rigorous examination at the World Budokan Organization’s karate camp in Lonavala, Maharashtra, earning his 1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan).
Trained under Dai Sensei Moses Tilak in 1997
During a prestigious karate camp, he underwent in-depth training under Dai Sensei Moses Tilak—India’s most respected martial artist with an 8th Dan Black Belt—and was awarded the 2nd Dan (Ni Dan).
Advanced Training with National and International Masters
Over the years, he received training from several esteemed martial artists:
Joji Abrahim – 6th Dan Black Belt
Hosi Batliwala – 5th Dan Black Belt
Sensei Rajesh Thakkar – 7th Dan Black Belt
Professor Brian Doset – 10th Dan Black Belt and founder of Spirit Combat in the UK
These experiences enriched his knowledge and broadened his martial arts perspective.
4th Dan in Meibukan Goju-Ryu under Shihan Sean Wong (2017)
In 2017, he trained under Shihan Sean Wong (7th Dan) from Canada, a recognized expert in Goju-Ryu Karate, and achieved his 4th Dan, marking a major step in his martial journey.
6th Dan from Karate Academy of Japan Goju-Ryu Seiwakai (2023)
A milestone achievement came in 2023 when, after intensive training and examination under Kyoshi Glenn Stephenson (7th Dan, Australia), he earned the 6th Dan Black Belt from the Karate Academy of Japan Goju-Ryu – Seiwakai.
Training under Shihan Luizi Stenziyano (Italy)
Further enhancing his skills, Shihan trained under Shihan Luizi Stenziyano (7th Dan) from Italy, gaining international-level insights into Goju-Ryu techniques.
Respect for All Martial Arts
Shihan Parekh holds deep admiration for various martial arts forms such as Kalaripayattu, Thagata, and Arnis. He believes every martial art has its own greatness and values learning from all traditions.
Mastery in Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts)
His interest in Arnis led him to train under Canadian master Ruben O. Barnahea, through which he achieved 5th Dan in Arnis and was appointed Chief Instructor of India in this discipline.
Promoter of Inclusive Dojo Culture
Shihan fosters a unique dojo culture that encourages students aged 5 to 50, making karate a family practice. His scientific approach to training adapts to individual age, strength, and understanding.
Focus on Intergenerational Training
Many parents train alongside their children in his classes, ensuring that karate is passed on to the next generation with the right discipline, values, and technique.
2nd Dan (Ni Dan) – 1997
Awarded the 2nd Dan Black Belt after detailed and rigorous training under Dai Sensei Moses Tilak, India’s top-ranking karateka (8th Dan).
4th Dan in Meibukan Goju-Ryu – 2017
Received his 4th Dan after intensive training under Shihan Sean Wong (7th Dan) from Canada, a respected figure in Meibukan Goju-Ryu Karate.
6th Dan in Goju-Ryu – 2023
Attained the prestigious 6th Dan Black Belt from The Karate Academy of Japan Goju-Ryu – Seiwakai, following training and examination under Kyoshi Glenn Stephenson (7th Dan, Australia).
5th Dan in Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts)
Trained under Master Ruben O. Barnahea from Canada and achieved 5th Dan in Arnis, showcasing versatility beyond traditional karate.
Appointed Chief Instructor of India for Arnis
Recognized for his expertise and commitment to the Filipino martial art, he was designated as the Chief Instructor of India in Arnis.
Contribution Recognized by Okinawan Research Project
Honored with a mention in a prestigious research project published by Okinawa, the birthplace of Karate, for his contribution to martial arts.
Member of Renowned Global Karate Bodies
Holds membership in internationally acclaimed karate organizations:
Japan Karate Federation (JKF) Gojukai
All Japan Goju-Ryu Seiwakai
Trainer for Bhavnagar Police Force
Provided special self-defense and tactical training to the Bhavnagar police team on four occasions, demonstrating practical application of his knowledge.
Founder of a Leading Karate Organization in India
Heads the Karate Academy of Japan Goju-Ryu Karate Do India, which:
Operates 45+ active centers
Trains over 8,000 students
Has produced 600+ Black Belt holders
First and Only Arnis Training Provider in Gujarat
His organization is the only one in Gujarat that officially trains students in Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts).