KUALA LUMPUR: After facing numerous challenges this year, ranging from injuries, below-par performances, weight category change to failure to win an Asiad medal, karateka S. Prem Kumar wants to put everything aside for a while and celebrate Deepavali tomorrow.
The Sea Games champion said the 2023 karate season is over, and now he wants to spend time with his family, something which he hasn't been able to do the last few years.
"This year, I want to celebrate Deepavali like I used to.
"Last year, I was overseas competing, and before that we were restricted from celebrating on a grand scale because of Covid-19.
"After a long time, I want to let loose," said Prem, who has been given a 20-day break.
The 29-year-old Kuala Lumpur-born Prem said he loves his mother's cooking.
However, due to strict competition regulations on weights - Prem, who has been competing in the kumite under-60kg, under-67kg and under-55kg categories, said he has been unable to truly enjoy his favourite dishes during Deepavali.
"I love my mother's cooking and this year I'm going to enjoy it thoroughly. In previous years, I had to watch my diet, so there wasn't much fun.
"Deepavali is all about thosai, mutton curry and other delicacies," added Prem who also plans to visit his relatives this year.
Prem said he will continue to do fitness and muscle endurance exercises during his break.
