Japan bestows rare Kenjutsu honour on Powerstar Pawan Kalyan; Vidyut Jammwal salutes ‘Grandmaster’

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Tollywood Powerstar Pawan Kalyan has added an extraordinary international honour to his multifaceted legacy. Known for balancing cinema, politics and a lifelong commitment to discipline, Pawan Kalyan achieved official induction into Kenjutsu, the traditional Japanese art of swordsmanship. Rooted in the combat techniques of the samurai, Kenjutsu is not merely a martial practice but a rigorous cultural discipline that emphasizes mental focus, ethical conduct and spiritual growth.

Related Story: Vidyut Jammwal pours hot candle wax on his face in intense Kalari Payattu ritual, internet stunned!

Understanding the Rarity of Kenjutsu Recognition

Kenjutsu dates back to feudal Japan and is preserved today through a limited number of classical schools, or koryū. According to historians and martial arts scholars referenced by institutions such as the Nippon Budokan and Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, formal recognition or induction in such classical arts is extremely rare for non-Japanese practitioners.

Training demands years of dedication, mastery of precise forms (kata), and deep respect for Japanese tradition. Pawan Kalyan’s induction therefore stands out as a rare cross-cultural acknowledgement, placing him among a select global few who have earned formal acceptance into this ancient discipline. 

Vidyut Jammwal’s Respectful Salute

While congratulatory messages have been pouring in ever since the announcement, actor Vidyut Jammwal, who is also trained and skilled in martial arts, stepped in to shower praises.

Sharing a picture of the Powerstar, Vidyut Jammwal wrote, "Master @PawanKalyan, I salute you on your ascension to grandmaster! Your legendary skills have been rightfully recognized further. May your journey continue to inspire others to embrace the discipline and warrior spirit. Master Vidyut Jammwal #kalaripayattu" (sic). 

Master @PawanKalyan,
I salute you on your ascension to grandmaster! Your legendary skills have been rightfully recognized further. May your journey continue to inspire others to embrace the discipline and warrior spirit.”

Master
Vidyut Jammwal#kalaripayattupic.twitter.com/IND2Ky6Ia3

— Vidyut Jammwal (@VidyutJammwal) January 15, 2026

Coming from Jammwal, an internationally respected practitioner of Kalaripayattu, this acknowledgment underscores the gravity of the achievement. 

A Cultural Bridge Between India and Japan

Beyond personal honour, Pawan Kalyan’s Kenjutsu induction represents a meaningful cultural bridge between India and Japan. Scholars often highlight martial arts as soft-power instruments that foster mutual respect across nations. 

By earning recognition in Kenjutsu, Pawan Kalyan reinforces the universal values of discipline, humility and perseverance, principles shared by Indian and Japanese traditions alike. This rare achievement not only elevates his global stature but also inspires a new generation to view martial arts as a lifelong path of self-mastery rather than mere physical combat. 

Must Check: Street Fighter: Vidyut Jammwal unleashes his ‘Dhalsim’ look, internet can’t get enough of bald 'wild' avatar

From Kalaripayattu Roots to Global Action Icon: Vidyut Jammwal’s Warrior Ascent

Vidyut Jammwal stands as a modern-day warrior whose body of work extends far beyond cinema. Trained in Kalaripayattu, one of the world’s oldest martial arts, he blends raw power with meditative control. His fluid movements, animal-like agility and disciplined philosophy reflect years of rigorous practice, making him a global ambassador of Indian martial traditions.

Notably, Jammwal is all set for his Hollywood debut with Street Fighter. His first look as Dhalsim, bald, intensely lean and battle-ready, sparked massive fan excitement. The movie is slated for release on March 20, 2026.