Martial Artist Siddartha promoting WUMA Kung Fu in Nepal

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 6: Siddartha Lama Tamang, a dedicated martial artist, is on a mission to popularise Kung Fu in Nepal as a means of a healthy lifestyle. 

Like all martial arts, Kung Fu aims to develop self-defence skills and encourage a healthy lifestyle. It offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits, from managing stress to strengthening the body. Kung Fu is an effective way to stay fit and it requires little to no equipment.

As the founding secretary and president of the Nepal WUMA Kung Fu Association, affiliated with England’s World United Martial Arts (WUMA), Siddartha has been instrumental in this endeavour.

“Nepal WUMA Kung Fu’s goal is to play a significant role in addressing chronic health issues faced by people of all ages in Nepal,” he says.

The association prioritises Qi-Gong and Tai Chi given their effectiveness in treating various diseases. “Qi-Gong & Tai Chi have proven their effectiveness in combating chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders and other age-related illnesses,” says the WUMA Kung Fu chief.

“In the present context, Nepali children are also suffering from anxiety and depression. Adults are also engaged in unhealthy habits and addiction. Practising Qi Gong and Tai Chi, which are traditional Chinese medicine techniques, can help combat these issues,” says Siddartha, who is also the national representative for World Tai Chi. 

The association provides training to individuals dealing with chronic illnesses and people suffering from depression, and addiction, among others.

Siddartha has a wide-ranging ambition for Kung Fu in Nepal that goes beyond its medicinal use. He aims to promote the sport’s growth in the country. Currently, more than 1500 players train in WUMA Kung Fu, with over fifty coaches and training centres spread across 23 districts. The association plans to develop highly skilled players and coaches by sending them to China and other countries.

Siddartha, who serves as the Asia Director of WMAC Austria, and the Nepal Chapter President of IKFF, China and WUMA UK, has been instrumental in providing international opportunities to Nepali players. 

Nepali WUMA Kung Fu practitioners participate every year in various competitions such as the World Championship, European Championship, British Open, and German Open. They not only compete as players but also serve as judges and referees, bringing honour to their nation with their victories.

Siddartha himself has successfully judged several national and international tournaments, including the 14th National Kung Fu Championship-2022 of India and the European Championship 2022 held in England. He also received a lifetime achievement award from the Kung Fu Federation of India for his contributions to the sport.

Siddartha, the double gold medallist at the German Open International Championship 2023, asserts that those practising WUMA Kung Fu can represent the country in various international championships and make a living by teaching Qi-Gong and Tai Chi.

The association is affiliated with the International Kung Fu Federation (IKFF) of China, and as such, Siddartha, the Nepal Chapter president of IKFF, has coordinated to provide scholarships to ten Nepali players annually.

“The main aim of our association is to offer WUMA Kung Fu training to people of all ages, from children to adults and senior citizens. However, our ultimate goal is to introduce Qi-Gong and Tai Chi to every Nepali household, thus helping them improve their physical and mental health,” Siddartha emphasizes.