SKKSA is excited to kick off our Kata series with BASSA DAI.
Love this kata, or loathe it, there is no getting away from the importance of this kata in our senior grading syllabus.
Bassa Dai is a sentei kata requiring a compulsory performance of it during the 2nd kyu up to shodan grading examination. However this does not mean that it can be forgotten after shodan grading, as it may be a surprise inclusion in subsequent Dan examinations! It is thus a significant kata in the SKKSA grading syllabus, resembling a ‘rite of passage’ for many Karate students and so becomes a much coveted Kata.
Bassa Dai is a majestic kata, one of the oldest and best known in Okinawan Karatedo. Translated, it means “storming the fortress” and it lives up to its name, with strong, powerful movements executed with explosive speed. This means that one must exhibit the power and spirit required to break through an enemy’s castle. This is further emphasized in the bunkai (application) where focus is on breaking an opponent’s balance, creating openings, and utilizing defensive techniques.
To a true karateka, the performance of Bassa Dai can be interpreted as overcoming obstacles, symbolizing inner strength and showing courage and determination. We look forward to Aneel Sensei taking us through the fine details of this all powerful kata at our Senior Saturday class this week 🥋
