Landi Kotal — Afghan martial artist Maqbool Shah Gardiwal, the Kyokushin Kan Karate Branch Chief for Afghanistan and an Asian champion, showcased his skills during the Azadi Cup Karate Championship marking Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day.

Gardiwal, who hails from Afghanistan’s eastern Nangarhar province, performed the Kyokushin style kata “Sushiho”, a demanding martial arts routine known for its emphasis on physical power, balance, and mental discipline. In karate, a kata represents an imaginary fight, enabling practitioners to demonstrate precision, technique, and fitness in a structured sequence of movements.

The event was held at the Jirga Hall in Landi Kotal, a town located near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Khyber District. The championship drew participants from across the region and featured a range of karate demonstrations, competitive bouts, and martial arts displays to celebrate Pakistan’s independence.

Gardiwal’s performance was among the highlights of the event, reflecting the shared cultural and sporting ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan. His presence also underlined the role of cross-border sports exchanges in fostering goodwill and cooperation between communities on both sides of the frontier.

In addition to his demonstration, Gardiwal served as a referee during the championship, overseeing matches and ensuring fair play in accordance with international Kyokushin Kan Karate rules. His dual role as both performer and official added to the prestige of the event, especially given his international achievements and recognition in the martial arts community.

The Azadi Cup Karate Championship in Landi Kotal formed part of a series of local celebrations commemorating Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day. Sports events, particularly in border regions, often serve as both a recreational outlet for youth and a platform for promoting discipline, fitness, and healthy competition.

Organisers noted that the participation of high-profile athletes like Gardiwal helps inspire young martial artists in the region, while also enhancing the visibility of Kyokushin Karate in Pakistan’s northwestern areas. The event concluded with demonstrations by local karate clubs and prize distributions for outstanding performances in various categories.