Our Journey
Since 1998
Gurushethra Institute of Martial Arts was born from a single conviction — that the ancient art of Okinawan Goju-Ryu karate could transform ordinary lives. What began as a single dojo in Chennai has grown into Tamil Nadu's most respected martial arts academy, with four centres, hundreds of active students, and a proven record of developing champions at every level.
Our Timeline
Six pivotal moments that shaped who we are — and who our students have become.
The Beginning
Aasan Saravanan T. opens the first Gurushethra dojo in Chennai with a small group of dedicated students and a vision to preserve traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate in Tamil Nadu.
First State Results
GIMA students represent Chennai at the Tamil Nadu State Karate Championship for the first time — a turning point that established Gurushethra as a serious training academy.
National Recognition
GIMA athletes qualify for the National Karate Championship, earning recognition at the highest level of Indian competition and raising the academy's profile across Tamil Nadu.
Second Centre Opens
Growing demand from the Chitlapakkam community leads to GIMA's expansion, bringing structured traditional karate training to a new area of Chennai.
International Milestones
Aasan Saravanan T. is awarded the VII Dan Black Belt in Malaysia — a prestigious international recognition of his mastery and decades of dedication to Goju-Ryu Karate.
Four Centres, Growing Family
With four training centres across Chennai — Chromepet, Chitlapakkam, and Nemilichery — GIMA continues to build champions of character and competition throughout the city.
The Beginning
Aasan Saravanan T. opens the first Gurushethra dojo in Chennai with a small group of dedicated students and a vision to preserve traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate in Tamil Nadu.
First State Results
GIMA students represent Chennai at the Tamil Nadu State Karate Championship for the first time — a turning point that established Gurushethra as a serious training academy.
National Recognition
GIMA athletes qualify for the National Karate Championship, earning recognition at the highest level of Indian competition and raising the academy's profile across Tamil Nadu.
Second Centre Opens
Growing demand from the Chitlapakkam community leads to GIMA's expansion, bringing structured traditional karate training to a new area of Chennai.
International Milestones
Aasan Saravanan T. is awarded the VII Dan Black Belt in Malaysia — a prestigious international recognition of his mastery and decades of dedication to Goju-Ryu Karate.
Four Centres, Growing Family
With four training centres across Chennai — Chromepet, Chitlapakkam, and Nemilichery — GIMA continues to build champions of character and competition throughout the city.
Our Values
The principles that guide every class, every grading, every interaction at GIMA.
Discipline
Every great achievement begins with consistent, purposeful practice. We instil discipline that extends far beyond the dojo.
Respect
From bowing to your sensei to honouring your opponent — respect is the foundation of every interaction at GIMA.
Strength
Physical and mental strength built through rigorous, progressive training that pushes every student to grow safely.
Focus
The ability to be fully present — on the mat and in life. Our training sharpens attention and clears the mind.
Confidence
We build genuine confidence from earned skill — the quiet self-assurance that comes from knowing what you are capable of.
Your First Class
Is On Us.
Book a free trial session at any GIMA centre. No equipment needed, no commitment required — just show up and find out what you're capable of.
Limited seats per batch. Early registration recommended.