Baghdad – Adopting the sport of Kung Fu in Iraq has gained the approval of many young people, especially in Sulaymaniyah Governorate, which pays great attention to the game thanks to the presence of qualified trainers.
Amid the intense training, the founder of the Kung Fu Club in the governorate, Burhan Kamel, walks among the ranks of the trainees to teach them how to perform the movements and execute each strike with strength and precision.
In a statement to the Chinese News Agency (Xinhua) followed by the (INA), Burhan Kamel said: “Kung Fu is a sport of ancient Chinese heritage and civilization, and its history goes back to the beginning of the Chinese nationalisms, that is, five thousand years ago, and in order to master the Chinese martial arts.” It is necessary to understand the Chinese culture and philosophy behind it, and as the Arab proverb says: Seek knowledge even if it is in China. This applies to Kung Fu as well.”
Kamel added: “In 2011, I set out for the Chinese province of Henan to realize my dream of Chinese Kung Fu. From this trip, I gained comprehensive training and a deeper understanding of the cultural logic and philosophical spirit behind the different styles of Chinese Kung Fu, as every movement in Kung Fu is an embodiment of the essence of Ancient Chinese philosophy.
He continued: “Over the following years, I returned to China several times to receive in-depth training, and in 2017, I founded the Shaolin Kung Fu Club in Sulaymaniyah, where it not only teaches Chinese Kung Fu, but also introduces Chinese culture to Iraqis. Since that time, he has participated “More than 3,000 Iraqi Kung Fu fans are in the club, including children and even the elderly.”
Kamel continued that ”he feels happy to see that many Iraqis have shown a strong interest in Chinese development and culture by learning this sport,” noting that “Chinese Kung Fu is not just a bridge linking Iraq to China, but rather it is a window for Iraqis to learn about this country’s civilization and strengthen The bonds of friendship between the two peoples, and despite the long distance, China and Iraq have become closer and more understanding thanks to cultural exchanges.”
Source: Chinese News Agency (Xinhua)
Title: Kung Fu: A Cultural Bridge from China to Iraq
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome, everyone. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Burhan Kamel, the founder of the Kung Fu Club in Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Iraq. Burhan has been instrumental in introducing and establishing Kung Fu as a popular sport among the youth in his region. Thank you for joining us, Burhan!
Burhan Kamel: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to share the journey of Kung Fu in Iraq.
Interviewer: Kung Fu is known worldwide, but it’s fascinating to see it taking root in Iraq, particularly in Sulaymaniyah. What inspired you to introduce Kung Fu to the youth there?
Burhan: My journey began in 2011 when I traveled to Henan province in China. I was captivated by the deep-rooted history and philosophy of Kung Fu. I realized that it’s not just a martial art; it’s a way of life that encompasses respect, discipline, and cultural understanding. Bringing that to Iraq was about more than just sport; it was about cultural exchange and empowerment for our young people.
Interviewer: That’s truly inspiring! You mentioned the importance of understanding the culture and philosophy behind Kung Fu. How do you incorporate these elements into your training sessions?
Burhan: In every class, we not only focus on the physical movements but also discuss the principles behind them. I often quote the Arab proverb, “Seek knowledge even if it is in China,” to emphasize the value of learning from different cultures. For instance, we explore the concepts of balance, resilience, and harmony in both life and martial arts. This approach helps the trainees connect more deeply with the sport.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’re fostering a holistic understanding of Kung Fu. Have you noticed any changes in the community since you started this initiative?
Burhan: Absolutely! The enthusiasm for Kung Fu has grown tremendously. We’ve seen an increased interest among youth who wish to challenge themselves physically and mentally. It promotes fitness, self-discipline, and a sense of community. Moreover, it’s been a wonderful way to bridge cultural gaps—students learn not only from me but also from each other.
Interviewer: That’s remarkable. What challenges have you faced in promoting Kung Fu in Iraq, and how have you overcome them?
Burhan: Initially, there was skepticism regarding martial arts as a sport, particularly amongst parents who might not be familiar with it. To address this, I organize workshops and demonstrations to show the positive values and skills the sport teaches. Additionally, I trained with qualified instructors, ensuring our club meets high standards, which reassures both parents and trainees about the legitimacy of what we’re doing.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’ve built a strong foundation. What are your hopes for the future of Kung Fu in Iraq?
Burhan: My dream is for Kung Fu to become a recognized sport across Iraq, with a structured approach that includes competitions and perhaps even collaborations with clubs in China. Ultimately, I hope this practice continues to inspire youth and fosters intercultural connections that lead to further understanding between our nations.
Interviewer: Thank you, Burhan. Your passion for the sport and dedication to cultural exchange are truly commendable. We look forward to seeing how Kung Fu flourishes in Sulaymaniyah and beyond.
Burhan: Thank you for the opportunity to share our journey. I believe that through sports like Kung Fu, we can build bridges and create a more understanding world.