What is Shaolin Kung Fu like?
Shaolin kung fu embodies agile movements, a resilient spirit, elegant motions, and powerful strikes, with every disciple, regardless of background, sharing a common belief in martial arts as a way of life and a spiritual pursuit.
Over the last weekend, 144 martial art masters from 47 countries competed in the finals of the 2024 Shaolin Games at the Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, aiming for the “2024 World Shaolin Kung Fu Star” title. Hundreds of kung fu enthusiasts also gathered to showcase their skills and share their experiences. After two days of intense competition, 10 contestants from various countries, including China, the US, and Australia, were crowned as the “2024 World Shaolin Kung Fu Stars.”
Shaolin Temple abbot Shi Yongxin emphasized that Shaolin kung fu practitioners worldwide have unique experiences and understandings of the culture. Shaolin culture, passed down through generations, is adaptable to people of all ages and backgrounds, with different regions having distinct needs. The abbot highlighted the dedication and reverence people have for Shaolin culture.
One such practitioner is Luis Mello from Brazil, who, with his monk’s spade and Buddhist beads, resembles Lu Zhishen from the Chinese novel Water Margin. Mello has practiced martial arts for over 40 years, founded the Instituto Lohan in Brazil, and immersed himself in various Chinese cultural practices, including qigong and traditional arts.
French competitor Clément Vaudagne performed the “Drunken Fist” routine, earning applause for his skill. Vaudagne’s master, Alexandre Cordaro, also known as Yan Yi, runs a Shaolin temple in France, teaching the philosophical and physical aspects of kung fu. Cordaro emphasizes self-control, discipline, and spiritual growth, making annual pilgrimages to the Shaolin Temple to deepen his practice.
From Africa, 6-year-old Fair Nvirenda, or Chu San, an orphan adopted by the Shaolin Temple in Zambia, has shown exceptional martial arts talent. His master, Yan Ming from Cote d’Ivoire, developed a passion for Chinese culture and kung fu through popular kung fu movies.
Yan Ming trained at the Shaolin Temple in China, later joining the Shaolin Monk Corps, and now teaches over 30 orphans in Zambia, aiming to bring the best of Chinese culture back to Africa and build a better Zambia.
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