SLAA Celebrates Two 5th Dan Promotions

Senseis Indika Maligaspe and Mahesh Manapperuma proudly display their certificates upon receiving their 5th Dan promotions.

It is with immense pride and joy that we share the news that two of our senior members have been awarded the prestigious honor of 5th Dan in Doshu's 2025 Kagami Biraki Honours List. This accolade is a shining testament to their dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to the art of Aikido.

Join us as we pay tribute to two remarkable individuals who have reached the esteemed rank of 5th Dan. This prestigious recognition not only highlights their mastery of Aikido techniques but also reflects their inspiring journey, strong character, and lasting influence on our community.

Sensei Indika Maligaspe: A Milestone in Mastery

With deep respect and heartfelt congratulations, we come together to celebrate the incredible achievement of our Senior Instructor, Sensei Indika Maligaspe, on his promotion to 5th Dan—a significant milestone that not only signifies his exceptional technical mastery but also reflects a lifetime of unwavering dedication and commitment to the art of Aikido. This accomplishment is a testament to the countless hours he has devoted to honing his skills, understanding the philosophy behind the movements, and embodying the spirit of Aikido.

Sensei Indika stands as one of our finest exponents in the practice of Aikido: a practitioner whose movements are characterized by remarkable precision, profound humility, and an unwavering spirit that inspires those around him. His journey in martial arts has been one of continuous refinement and growth, particularly since he joined a renowned Aikido club in Dubai. There, he has flourished under the guidance of esteemed mentors and has immersed himself in a vibrant international community of practitioners who share his passion for the art.

His excellence has not gone unnoticed within the broader Aikido community. Visiting instructors from the prestigious Hombu Dojo have consistently praised his skill, grace, and generosity on the mat. As a popular choice for uke during their demonstrations, Sensei Indika embodies the ideal of receptivity and trust—offering his body and spirit in service of teaching, learning, and the transmission of Aikido’s deeper truths. His ability to adapt and respond to the techniques of others with fluidity and respect demonstrates not only his physical capabilities but also his deep understanding of the principles that govern Aikido.

Whether he is guiding students through the fundamental techniques of kihon waza or flowing seamlessly in randori, Sensei Indika inspires with every step he takes on the mat. His promotion is not merely a personal accolade; it serves as a beacon of inspiration for all of us who train under his watchful eye and generous heart. Each class he leads is an opportunity for growth, not just in technique but in the philosophical understanding of Aikido as a way of life. His teachings extend beyond mere physical practice; they encourage us to cultivate a mindset of peace, respect, and harmony both on and off the mat.

As we honor Sensei Indika Maligaspe on this momentous occasion, we reflect on the profound impact he has had on our community. His journey is a reminder of the values that Aikido instills in us: perseverance, respect, and the pursuit of excellence. We look forward to witnessing his continued growth and contributions to the art of Aikido, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a dedicated and inspiring instructor.

We bow in gratitude and admiration.

Your path lifts ours.

Omedetou gozaimasu, Sensei.

May your journey continue to illuminate the way.

But beyond the accolades, Sensei Indika remains a teacher first—guiding students with patience, challenging them with precision, and embodying the philosophy of Aikido in every interaction. His promotion is not just a personal milestone; it is a shared celebration for all who train under his watchful eye and generous heart.

We extend our deepest congratulations and gratitude.

From island roots to desert skies,

His art now flows where falcons rise.”

 “When masters gather, they seek his lead—

A craftsman of motion, a teacher of need.

He speaks through movement, not acclaim—

Yet every step resounds his name.

 Technique refined, intention clear—

He draws the path that others steer.

Sensei Mahesh Mannapperuma (5th Dan, 2025 Honours List)

In the 2025 Honours List, Sensei Mahesh Mannapperuma was awarded his 5th Dan in Aikido—a recognition that reflects not only his technical excellence but the deep affection and respect he inspires across generations.

Sensei Mahesh lights up the tatami with his presence. Affable, engaging, and endlessly patient, he brings a rare blend of skill and warmth to every class. Whether guiding seasoned practitioners or leading the ever-energetic kiddies’ class, he meets each student with genuine care and a twinkle in his eye.

His social grace is legendary—he’s the one who remembers birthdays, welcomes newcomers with ease, and somehow makes every seminar feel like a reunion. Yet beneath that easygoing charm lies a deep commitment to the art, honed over years of dedicated practice and teaching.

To watch Sensei Mahesh with children is to witness Aikido’s spirit in motion: playful, respectful, and full of discovery. He doesn’t just teach techniques—he builds confidence, nurtures curiosity, and models kindness. For many young students, he is their first sensei, and the one they’ll remember for life.

Sensei Mahesh’s story is one of resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence. Known for his dynamic style and commitment to discipline, he has become a role model for practitioners of all levels. His deep understanding of Aikido as a philosophy, beyond its physical form, is what sets him apart.

Whether during spirited black belt sparring or during his thought-provoking reflections on the art, Sensei Mahesh always brings a unique energy and insight to the dojo. One of the most cherished memories we share is his moving speech at last year’s seminar. He reminded us all that Aikido is not merely about learning to defend ourselves but about harmonizing with life itself.

His promotion to 5th Dan is a celebration of leadership through joy, and a reminder that mastery is not only measured in throws and pins, but in the lives uplifted along the way.

We bow with gratitude, Sensei. You make the dojo feel like home.

"He teaches with laughter

tucked in each throw,

Where tiny feet learn

the art to grow.”

"With kindness as his compass,

and patience his pace,

He guides the smallest hands

with quiet grace.”

“Not just a teacher,

but a friend in motion—

He turns the mat

 into a sea of devotion.”

Kiddie’s Class Tribute

“He bows to the giggles,

the stumbles, the cheer—

And somehow makes

Every child feels like a peer.”

“He greets with a smile,

 teaches with soul—A sensei whose warmth

makes the dojo whole.”

A Legacy of Leadership

The combined achievements of DojoCho Sensei Ajith, Sensei Indika, and Sensei Mahesh signify a golden chapter for our Aikido Club. Their journeys remind us all that excellence is a process—a beautiful interplay of discipline, mentorship, and a relentless pursuit of harmony.

Let us take this opportunity not just to celebrate them but to draw inspiration from their stories as we strive to follow in their footsteps. May their dedication continue to guide and uplift our dojos for years to come!

Resounding congratulations to Sensei Ajith, Sensei Indika, and Sensei Mahesh!

“Three paths, one spirit—fire and flow,

They guide the roots and help them grow.

In every bow, their legacy stays,

Gentle hands shaping future ways.”

"The mat remembers. The spirit continues."