Hrishi Pendse

Judo 1st Dan

Hrishi started training Judo at the age of 9 under Cawas Billimoria (Indian Olympian and Asian & Commonwealth Games medallist).

Hrishi was always fascinated by martial arts, specifically Judo for its strong emphasis on mind, body and soul. As a reticent youth, Hrishi credits Judo for bringing him out of his shell, instilling confidence and a strong work ethic.

Hrishi trained and competed at Judo for many years in India and Japan, the pinnacle being competition in the +95kg open weight category, where he built his strategy on the tenets of the founding father, Jigoro Kano:

• develop a system to throw opponents larger than oneself

• possess a calm demeanor and a sense of fairness

• never give up in the face of adversity

Hrishi took a short detour in his Judo journey and became a professional rugby union player for a few years in NZ and Japan. But by then, Judo had become a form of self expression for Hrishi, who continued a strong commitment to the discipline.

Hrishi is deeply influenced by the two founding principles of judo;

‘Maximum Efficiency’ and ‘Mutual Benefit’.

Show your opponent respect and gratitude, build mutual trust & assistance and strive to serve society.

Hrishi is now a first degree Black belt and enjoys teaching the ways of Judo.