On October 20th, in Zhengzhou, a young Cambodian martial artist named Sodalisa shared her enthusiasm for Shaolin Kung Fu during her visit to the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, Henan Province, where she was invited to participate in the 13th Zhengzhou International Shaolin Martial Arts Festival.
From October 18th to 20th, Sodalisa was part of a delegation of over ten Cambodian practitioners of Khmer boxing, who toured the Shaolin Temple and engaged in martial arts exchanges. This visit aimed to deepen the cultural ties between Shaolin Kung Fu and Khmer boxing. Earlier this year in April, an event titled “Shaolin Meets Angkor” was held in Siem Reap, where Shaolin monks were invited to participate.
On October 19th, Cambodian martial artist Narak showcased his skills at the Shaolin Temple, expressing his excitement about returning after previously exchanging techniques with Shaolin monks. Narak, who had prepared extensively with Sodalisa and their friends to represent Khmer boxing, explained, “Khmer boxing, or ‘Lion Fighting,’ is an ancient martial art, and some of its techniques are documented in places like Angkor Wat.”
As temperatures dropped in Zhengzhou, Narak, dressed in fighting gear, stomped his feet to keep warm but was eager to take the stage. “It’s a bit cold, but I can’t wait to show our martial arts,” he said.
During the performance, Narak demonstrated the art of Khmer boxing, striking with determined focus alongside his peers. After the exhibition, he expressed his satisfaction with his performance, noting that showcasing Cambodian Kung Fu before an international audience was a valuable opportunity to share his culture.
At the same time, the Cambodian martial artists were impressed by various Shaolin styles, including Ground Lying Boxing and Toad Boxing. Narak was particularly captivated by a demonstration of “Silver Spear Throat Thrust” by four monks, exclaiming, “That throat thrust is simply incredible!”
Both Sodalisa and Narak were visiting Shaolin Temple for the first time. Sodalisa remarked that martial arts from different countries carry unique meanings behind their techniques, with Khmer boxing focusing on combat skills while Shaolin Kung Fu emphasizes cultural expression. “We share a common goal: to spread the martial arts of our respective countries,” she said. Narak added that while Khmer boxing focuses on how to fight, Shaolin displays more visual appeal. “The movements of these Shaolin techniques look so cool!” he exclaimed.
Traveling with them was Sophibose, who had also made friends with Shaolin monks during their previous exchanges in Siem Reap. He shared, “I’ve been studying Khmer boxing for five years, and I hope to learn more about Shaolin Kung Fu.”
