In a world where opportunity often depends on geography, few break free from the limits of their birthplace to impact lives far beyond. Shreepada R. Rao, a name that echoes across India’s martial arts landscape, is one such trailblazer. His journey isn’t just about winning medals—it’s about rewriting the rules of what’s possible.
Humble Beginnings, Unshakable Dreams
Born in Puttur, Karnataka, Rao’s childhood was filled with the energy of coastal life, but he always dreamt bigger. At the age of 9, his path began with Shito Ryu Karate, then shifted to Shotokan Karate at 12. But it was Taekwondo—a sport that balances strength with grace—that ultimately stole his heart at just 16.
Driven by relentless passion and guided by his mentor Master Subhash Yadav, he stepped into a world that would later become his stage for service, innovation, and leadership.
Building a Legacy from the Ground Up
When others sought fame in cities, Rao turned to the villages of Belagavi, founding Rao’s Yuva Academy in 2012 in the small town of Kakati. What seemed like a modest step was, in fact, the birth of a revolution. The academy grew into a national-level ISO 9001:2015-certified training ground for rural athletes, now affiliated with the Taekwondo Federation of India.
What sets Rao apart isn’t just his 4th Dan Black Belt from Kukkiwon, Korea—it’s his belief that Taekwondo is a tool for transformation.
A Leader in Every Sense
Over the years, Rao has become a guiding force for Taekwondo in India—not just as a coach and referee, but also as a tournament director, mentor, and technical strategist. He has trained national-level athletes, led referee boards, and designed digital tournament frameworks for CBSE South Zone, DASARA CM Cup, and SGFI events.
Through his leadership, martial arts became more organized, inclusive, and accessible.
Creating Opportunities, Changing Lives
Understanding the struggles of rural youth, Rao founded the Yakshit Yuva Foundation, a nonprofit that offers:
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Free self-defense camps for girls
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Mental health and wellness workshops
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Scholarships for underprivileged children
To date, students under his wings have won over 650 medals—but the true victories lie in the lives reshaped and dreams reignited.
Expanding the Movement
Rao’s vision has no borders. With the launch of:
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KARAVALI Taekwondo Championship (2022)
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Konkan Taekwondo Development Championship (2024)
He brought Olympic-style martial arts to the Konkan and coastal regions of Maharashtra, breaking barriers of geography and privilege.
His contribution to academics is no less impactful. Rao was instrumental in integrating Taekwondo as a university subject at Rani Channamma University, offering students UGC and Olympic-level recognition between 2014 and 2017.
Recognition Rooted in Purpose
Awards followed his service:
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International Icon Award (2025)
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World Sports Star Award (2022)
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Inducted into the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame (USA) and Taekwondo Hall of Fame India
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Government Recognitions from Karnataka’s Ministers and the Sports Authority of India
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Featured in the International World Records Book
And yet, Rao remains grounded. Today, while serving as a government employee and pursuing a Ph.D. in Sports Administration & Management from East Bridge University, Paris, he continues to coach, empower, and inspire.
The Power of One
“When I started, all I had was belief. Now, I want every student—rural or urban—to feel that their dreams are valid, their efforts are enough, and their life can change through discipline and dedication,” says Rao.
Master Shreepada R. Rao is proof that one person, fueled by passion and rooted in purpose, can light the way for thousands.
He’s not just building fighters.
He’s building futures.
