Sumo (Charcoal sketches)

Sumo is more than just physical Martial Arts, it is spiritual.
It is a strict lifestyle and it is very hierarchical.
It is believed that Sumo fighter should be strong however,
strength will only get the Sumo warrior to certain level.
To become a top ranked Sumo, the fighter must have an
unbreakable spirit and great aura around him. The rituals
are a big part of Sumo tradition. Throughout the history
 there have only been 70 fighters crowned as the Yokozuna,
which is the highest rank.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6PmtNp2idw

Mexican wrestling masks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8N3dxlZKhU

http://maskalucha.com/history-of-lucha-libre.aspx

http://www.craveonline.co.uk/site/777821-luchador-mask


Masks- more than anonymous - symbols - good vs evil , right or wrong.  'The luchador(fighter) mask defines a wrestler’s identity and helps him create and maintain a persona.'The wrestlers would take on the role of the character that was reflected in their mask. In other words, the mask would define how the wrestler acted. They would become the mask.'

Masks may look modern but they are inspired by ancient Aztec traditions of masked warriors.
 Most of the early Mexican wrestling masks 'were comprised of colors and symbols that reflected animals, ancient heroes and gods.


 Poor children from the streets dream of becoming wrestlers. They learn the skills in the gyms. They look up to their idols. The fighters are heroes and idols. They give hope.

India's Wushu Warrior Girl

Recently I have watched a very interesting video about a girl from India who practice martial arts and dreams of going to a national tournament however due to the dangers in outside world and her family's religious believes she meets obstacles on her way to fulfill her dream. Due to growing violence towards women in her region the school decided to teach girls martial arts. The martial arts of Wushu mean a lot to Fareeha and she will not give up until she becomes a champion.