Origins of "Sports Tangsoodo"

Sports Tangsoodo was founded by Grandmaster Manoj Jangra, an Indian martial artist whose lifelong dedication to combat arts, philosophy, and scientific training methods culminated in the creation of a unique martial discipline. Inspired by the many martial arts yet firmly grounded in Indian values, Grandmaster Jangra integrated:

• Indigenous Indian combat concepts

• Scientific approaches to sports training

• Modern athletic structure

• Universal martial arts ethics

His aim was to create a martial art that was globally accessible, competitive, and culturally meaningful, while upholding the principles of respect, humility, physical conditioning, and personal growth.

Sports Tangsoodo evolved not only as a technical system but also as a cultural movement, emphasizing India’s contributions to global martial arts heritage.

Foundation of the GTF

As Sports Tangsoodo began gaining rapid recognition in India and abroad, the need for a unified global authority became clear. To preserve the integrity of the system, ensure standardized instruction, and facilitate international competition, Grandmaster Manoj Jangra founded the Global Tangsoodo Federation.

The GTF was formally inaugurated with the following objectives:

• To act as the supreme international body for Sports Tangsoodo

• To formalize grading, instructor licensing, and technical curriculum

• To develop global sporting rules for safe and fair competition

• To promote Sports Tangsoodo in educational institutions, defense training, and civilian fitness programs

• To build international partnerships and represent the art at world martial arts forums

From its inception, the federation positioned itself as a bridge between traditional martial philosophy and modern sport science.

Early Development and Global Expansion

Under Grandmaster Jangra’s leadership, the GTF began establishing national chapters, technical committees, and regional training centers. The early years saw:

• Standardization of the Dan and Kup rank system

• Development of the official Sports Tangsoodo ruleset

• Instructor and referee certification programs

• Introduction of international seminars and global championships

Countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa began adopting Sports Tangsoodo, recognizing its balanced blend of tradition, athleticism, and culturally rich foundations.

The federation’s motto—"Unity Through Discipline"—became a guiding principle for practitioners worldwide.

Recognition of an Indian Martial Legacy

One of the major achievements of the GTF has been its commitment to showcasing the Indian cultural roots embedded within Sports Tangsoodo. The curriculum incorporates elements of Indian discipline, ethical codes, yogic principles of breath and control, and philosophical teachings such as ahimsa (non-violence), seva (service), and dharmic duty.

Through these efforts, the GTF established Sports Tangsoodo as not just a martial sport, but a cultural contribution from India to the global martial arts community.

Present and Future

Today, the Global Tangsoodo Federation continues under the vision established by Grandmaster Manoj Jangra. It functions as:

• A global regulator of technical standards

• A world championship organizer

• A training and accreditation authority

• A promoter of youth development and international harmony through martial arts

With dojangs and national governing bodies across multiple continents, the GTF’s mission is to guide Sports Tangsoodo into the future as a globally respected martial discipline, rooted in Indian culture yet universal in spirit.