When one speaks of the development and perseverance of Taekwondo in India, the name of Dr. Yurembam Gaura Singha shines with enduring respect and admiration. Born on April 4, 1964, in Assam’s Hojai district, Gaura Singha’s journey from a passionate athlete to a revered coach has been one marked by discipline, resilience, and a vision to see Indian Taekwondo flourish on both national and global stages. His remarkable story reflects not just the growth of an individual, but the growth of an entire sporting community inspired by his relentless dedication.
Dr. Yurembam Gaura Singh is more than just a coach; he is a pioneer who shaped the foundation of Taekwondo training in India. A national gold medalist himself, he carried the competitive spirit of the sport into a career that now spans over three decades. His 34 years of professional experience were also defined by his years of service in the Armed Forces, where discipline, commitment, and integrity became inseparable parts of his identity. These values seamlessly transferred into his coaching career, where he emphasized not just the techniques of combat, but the essence of character-building through sport.
What makes Dr. Singha’s contribution to Indian Taekwondo truly extraordinary is his philosophy of balancing sport with education. At a time when many young athletes grapple with the choice between academics and athletics, he has stood firmly as a guiding light, advocating for a holistic approach to life. His athletes are encouraged not only to achieve excellence in the sport but also to secure strong educational foundations. This dual focus ensures that young Taekwondo practitioners are prepared for life beyond the arena, embodying the balance of mind and body that martial arts philosophy itself promotes.
Gaura Singh’s spouse Mrs. Bandita Devi has been currently working as an Assistant Teacher under (Assam Govt.). Moreover, his son Y BANDUM SINGH is also a Taekwondo Athlete & coach assigned under (All Assam Taekwondo Association) adding up his daughter Miss Dhriti Devi is a National Referee. Dr Y Gaura Singha is also the most trusted student of former Taekwondo legend Yumnam Khemchan Singh. Presently Hon’ble MLA of Manipur Assembly
Equally striking has been his emphasis on passion and integrity. In a sporting world often marred by politics and pressures, Dr. Singha has continued to build a culture of honesty and dedication. His leadership is defined not by short-term victories but by the long-term nurturing of athletes who respect the sport and uphold its true values. For him, Taekwondo is not just about competition; it is about discipline, respect, and the strength to face challenges with courage.
The development of Indian Taekwondo owes much to his vision. As a coach, mentor, and strategist, Dr. Yurembam Gaura Singh has inspired generations of athletes to push beyond boundaries and dream bigger. His role in shaping structured training methods, encouraging grassroots participation, and motivating young athletes has had a lasting impact on the sport’s popularity in the country. By instilling values of perseverance and hard work, he has ensured that Taekwondo is not merely a pursuit of medals, but a medium of personal growth and national pride.
The legacy of Dr. Yurembam Gaura Singh is not one that will fade easily. It lives on in the countless athletes he has trained, in the ethos of balanced growth he has championed, and in the integrity he has brought to Indian sports. He stands as a living testament to how one individual’s commitment can change the face of a sport for an entire nation. For aspiring martial artists, coaches, and enthusiasts, his life is both a lesson and an inspiration.
In the end, Dr. Singha’s journey reflects the spirit of Taekwondo itself—discipline, perseverance, and the pursuit of harmony. His work has empowered Indian Taekwondo to stand tall, not just as a sport, but as a way of life. And as future generations lace up their belts and step onto the mat, they will be walking on the path illuminated by the passion and dedication of one man—Dr. Y. Gaura Singha.
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