Akul Malik, an Indian student at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, found himself drawn into the world of Chinese martial arts through an unexpected path. With some prior exposure to kung fu from an Indian monk who had trained in China, his interest in Chinese kung fu motivated him to pursue the art directly at the source. In the summer of 2024, he spent two months at Fawang Temple in Dengfeng, central China's Henan Province, studying kung fu from Master Miaodu.

Initially a fitness enthusiast, Akul viewed kung fu primarily as a physical discipline. However, his time at the temple revealed a deeper, more holistic practice. He was struck by the emphasis on internal strength, mental resilience and the underlying philosophy of kung fu. He also observed cultural parallels between India and China, noting the shared heritage of Buddhism and the existence of traditional Indian martial arts such as Kalaripayattu.

The intensive training, including the challenging horse stance exercises, pushed him beyond his perceived limits, developing both physical endurance and mental strength. According to Akul, while workouts at the gym shape your physique, kung fu focuses on the internal, which he believes strengthens one's spirit.

Even after returning to Shanghai, the lessons learned at Fawang Temple continue to have an impact on Akul, fostering a sense of gratitude, discipline and appreciation for cultural connectivity.

Directed by Chen Hongyu and Zhong Xia

Filmed by Duan Qingchen and Wang Hongjie

Edited by Zhong Xia

Cover designed by Liu Shaozhen