Karate for Confidence: Austrian Project Empowers Girls in India Against Rising Violence
Published: November 27, 2025 12:30 PM PST – In a remarkable story of international collaboration and empowerment, an Austrian-led initiative is making waves in India, providing karate training to girls and young women as a vital tool against escalating violence. This breaking news highlights a decade-long project that’s not just teaching self-defense, but building resilience and self-worth in a region where women face disproportionate risk.
Former karate world champion Alisa Buchinger with students during a training session in Bihar, India.
A Decade of Empowerment: The ‘Sonne’ Project
For over ten years, the Austrian association “Sonne” has been running karate courses in schools across India, specifically targeting areas with high rates of violence against women. Launched in 2014, the project addresses a stark reality: in India, a woman or girl is reportedly raped every 15 minutes, with countless cases going unreported. The program isn’t simply about physical defense; it’s about fostering mental strength, discipline, and the courage to stand up for oneself.
From Shy Child to Champion: Alisa Buchinger’s Journey
Spearheading the effort is Alisa Buchinger, a former karate world champion. Buchinger, who experienced firsthand the transformative power of martial arts, shares her own story of overcoming shyness and building confidence through karate. “Karate taught me to stand up for myself,” she explains. Since 2015, she’s been a project sponsor, bringing her expertise and passion to girls in India. Her involvement underscores the project’s commitment to providing strong female role models.
The Harsh Reality of Violence in India
The need for such a program is tragically clear. Bihar, one of the states where “Sonne” operates, is described as a particularly precarious region for women. Buchinger recounts a “culture shock” during her first visit, witnessing a society where women are often considered less valuable and expected to be submissive. This societal imbalance contributes to a climate where violence and attacks are commonplace, and many women feel powerless to defend themselves.
Students participating in a karate session as part of the ‘Sonne’ project.
Beyond Self-Defense: Building Confidence and Changing Mindsets
The karate courses aren’t just teaching techniques; they’re instilling a sense of self-worth and agency. Twelve-year-old Chanchal, a participant in the program, eloquently expresses the impact: “For me, karate is not just sport – it makes me strong, courageous and happy. I look forward to training every time.” The emphasis on respect and discipline extends beyond the training hall, influencing the girls’ behavior and interactions in their daily lives.
The Ripple Effect: Success Stories and Long-Term Impact
The project’s success is evident in the stories of individual girls. Buchinger recalls meeting a young girl ten years ago who showed exceptional talent. She recently reconnected with her, discovering she’s now a confident young woman pursuing higher education and continuing her karate training. This demonstrates the long-term, transformative potential of the program.
Expanding Reach and Securing the Future
The “Sonne” project has expanded significantly since its inception, now offering karate sessions three times a week at two schools in Bihar and incorporating the concept into nearly all schools in Bangladesh. To ensure the project’s sustainability, Ontime Logistics, a company based in Flachgau, Austria, has stepped forward as a project sponsor. This commitment will help secure the future of these vital programs and empower even more girls.
This initiative arrives during the annual “16 Days Against Violence Against Women” campaign (November 25th – December 10th), a global effort to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls. The “Sonne” project offers a tangible solution, demonstrating that empowerment through skill-building and confidence-building can be a powerful force for change. The story serves as a potent reminder that investing in the safety and well-being of women is an investment in a more just and equitable future. For more breaking news and in-depth coverage, stay tuned to archyde.com.
