Description

The Rotaract Club of BMS College of Engineering welcomed students, faculty, and community members to Swaraksha, a self-defense training workshop aimed at empowering individuals with essential skills for personal safety and well-being. Held on the 3rd of February 2024 at the Indoor Stadium, the event was a collaborative effort to promote peace, conflict prevention/resolution, and community development. Swaraksha, meaning self-protection, provided participants with the opportunity to learn practical self-defense techniques under the guidance of Mr. Lakshmikanth, a renowned national and international martial artist. The workshop emphasized that strength lies not just in muscles but in the knowledge and skills to defend oneself. Through a combination of oral instruction and hands-on practice in the ratio of 10:90 respectively, attendees gained valuable insights into situational awareness and self-defense tactics. Areas of Focus: Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution: Swaraksha aimed to contribute to peace by equipping individuals with the ability to protect themselves, reducing the likelihood of violence and conflict within the community.By equipping individuals with the tools to defend themselves, the workshop contributed to the cultivation of a safer and more harmonious community. Community and Economic Development: By fostering a sense of safety and confidence among participants, the workshop promoted community development. It catalyzes development by instilling confidence and resilience among participants. As individuals feel safer and more empowered, they are more inclined to engage in community activities and contribute meaningfully to economic endeavors. Avenue of Service- Club Service: The Swaraksha Self-Defense Workshop was organized under the avenue of Club Service, reflecting the Rotaract Club of BMSCE's commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for personal development and community engagement within the college and beyond. Through initiatives like Swaraksha, the club upholds Rotary's commitment to selfless service, fostering positive change and empowerment in the community. Event Highlights: ➔ Expert Guidance: Mr. Lakshmikanth's presence lent an aura of expertise and authenticity to the workshop. He shared his expertise and experience with participants, highlighting the importance of self-defense in today's world. As a Black Belt 3rd Dan holder and a stalwart in the martial arts community, his insights and teachings resonated with participants, inspiring a newfound sense of self-confidence and self-assurance. ➔ Interactive Learning: Participants actively engaged in practical demonstrations and partnered activities, gaining hands-on experience in applying self-defense techniques. Through experiential learning, attendees gained invaluable insights into situational awareness and effective self-defense tactics. ➔ Empowering Speeches: Project chairs, Rtr. Nidhi J and Rtr. Syed Saif Ali, delivered impassioned speeches that underscored the significance of self-defense as a fundamental life skill for personal safety and empowerment. Conclusion: Swaraksha, the Self-Defense Workshop concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks to participants, instructors, organizing committee members, and faculty supporters, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the success of the event. A symbolic plant was presented to Mr. Lakshmikanth as a token of appreciation for his unwavering dedication and guidance throughout the workshop. To wrap up, all the attendees gathered together to capture a memorable group photo signifying the successful conclusion of the workshop. Overall, Swaraksha served as a platform for individuals to acquire essential self-defense skills, fostering a safer and more confident community while aligning with Rotaract's values of service and empowerment