Birth: 1968, Sindhuli
Death: 18 August 2021, Kathmandu

The practice of karate fosters a strong mind, promotes physical fitness and improves self-confidence. Krishna Bahadur Rai embraced the art form from early in his life, and remained enamored with it throughout. This dedication also earned him numerous accolades at home and abroad. 

Born in Khurkot, a village in Sindhuli, Rai enrolled into Nepal Police at an early age. Having demonstrated great adeptness in karate, he was chosen to represent Nepal at the 8th South Asian Games held in Kathmandu in 1999, the year karate and taekwondo were introduced to the games. There, Rai became one of the first gold medalists for team kata. 

Rai continued his winning streak, impressing Nepali audiences by securing another gold medal at the 4th National Games. This time around it was for solo kata.  

These achievements were no mean feats and King Birendra conferred on Rai the distinguished Gorkha Dakshin Bahu. 

Like other sports, there’s an unmistakable element of sociability in karate, especially when it is taught in youth clubs and schools. Rai had a fervent desire to impart the skills he had mastered to Nepali youngsters. 

In 2008, Rai completed a diploma from the Japan Karatedo Nanbukai Association, which declared him to be the chief coach of Nanbukai karate in Nepal. In 2014, he founded Japan Karatedo Nanbukai Sitoriyo Association, Nepal. With his team of skilled athletes, he had been encouraging everyone from young kids to adults to learn the intricate techniques of Nanbukai karate. 

On 18 August, Rai succumbed to Covid-19 at the age of 53. He is survived by his wife and son.