Ancient Chinese Martial Arts Find New Home in Benin

Damien Agossou Degbo, a Beninese martial artist, leads Super Shaolin, a club promoting Chinese martial arts in Benin. His journey began at age 13, fueled by a passion for kung fu and tai chi inspired by iconic films. Degbo’s training at the Shaolin Temple deepened his understanding of martial arts and Chinese culture. Now, he teaches over 350 students, emphasizing cultural exchange and personal growth through martial arts.

In Cotonou, Benin, a modest martial arts club located in Akpro-Misserete is gaining attention for promoting ancient Chinese martial arts. Under the guidance of 53-year-old Damien Agossou Degbo, students practice kung fu and tai chi amidst enthusiastic shouts of “Hay-Hah!” Degbo views these martial arts not just as physical training but as a fusion of philosophy and cultural exchange, bridging the gap between Benin and China’s rich traditions.

Degbo’s journey into martial arts began at the age of 13 in Dangbo, Benin. His fascination sparked while watching action films featuring Chinese legends like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan at a cinema in Porto-Novo. The graceful movements and combative styles captivated him. “What struck me most was how these actors defended themselves… it spoke to me,” Degbo recalled. Thus began his pursuit of martial arts, starting with a kung fu club in Porto-Novo followed by Chinese language studies at the Chinese Cultural Center in Cotonou.

In 2010, he founded his own club named Super Shaolin of Benin. The turning point in his journey came in 2014 when a scholarship allowed him to train at the famous Shaolin Temple in China. This experience was unlike any other he had encountered, with a rigorous training schedule that far exceeded his expectations. “At Shaolin Temple, training was fast-paced and relentless,” he noted. He not only honed his martial arts skills but was also immersed in various aspects of Chinese culture, including calligraphy and traditional medicine.

Degbo returned to China the following year to expand his skills in traditional performance arts, like the lion and dragon dances. His intention was to bring these styles back to Benin. “I wanted to pass on what I had learned to empower young people with self-discipline, confidence and an understanding of another culture,” he explained. Nowadays, his Super Shaolin club has grown to over 350 students, where he teaches not only wushu and tai chi, but also meditation and cultural practices.

One of his students, 26-year-old Cherif Deen, reflects on how kung fu has been life-altering for him. “Kung fu changed my life,” he stated, highlighting the clarity it has brought him in dealing with challenges. For Degbo, teaching kung fu is not merely about physicality; it is about instilling values that transcend borders. “Kung fu taught me self-mastery,” he contended, emphasizing the connection it creates between different cultures.

As he embraces this role of a cultural ambassador, Degbo sees martial arts as a medium for enhancing mutual understanding. Through various performances and cultural exchanges, he fosters respect and awareness of Chinese values such as discipline and harmony. “Sharing kung fu with young people gives them insight into the values of Chinese culture,” he concluded. This journey signifies more than just martial arts; it symbolizes a heartfelt connection to another culture.

In summary, Damien Agossou Degbo embodies the role of a cultural ambassador for ancient Chinese martial arts in Benin. Through his Super Shaolin club, he teaches not only martial arts techniques but also promotes understanding of Chinese culture. His experiences have allowed him to inspire and empower youths through the discipline of kung fu, establishing a bridge of cultural exchange between Benin and China. The growth of his club, now with over 350 students, illustrates the increasing interest in this rich tradition.

Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn