LUCKNOW, Aug. 31 -- Lal Kumar, 62, a veteran judo coach from Varanasi, passed away on Sunday after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped the sport across the city and its neighboring rural areas. Counted among Varanasi's most respected and experienced judo instructors, his life in judo spanned decades as both a competitor and a mentor, and his work is credited with turning small towns and villages into sources of national-level talent. As an athlete, Lal Kumar reached national prominence when he won a bronze medal at the 1985 National Games. He later formalized his coaching credentials at the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala, becoming a certified coach whose methods combined technical discipline with a deep commitment to athlete welfare. He began coaching in Varanasi around 1993 and for many years was closely associated with Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium in Sigra, where generations of young judokas trained under his guidance. Lal Kumar, who fought against odds throughout his life, is widely acknowledged for popularizing judo across Varanasi and for cultivating a sporting culture in nearby rural communities. He played a pivotal role in establishing Bhatti village as a recognized hub for judo athletes, transforming it from a place with few sporting opportunities into a cradle of champions. His emphasis on outreach and accessibility enabled many youngsters from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to take up the sport, receive proper coaching, and pursue careers in athletics and public service. Over the years, his disciples won more than 100 medals at national and international competitions, and many went on to secure employment in various government services-an outcome he regarded as a measure of success as meaningful as medals. Among his notable students was Ram Asare Yadav, who achieved recognition on the international judo stage. Lal Kumar's contributions were recognized at higher levels as well; his name was once recommended for the prestigious Dronacharya Award in acknowledgment of his coaching achievements. Even in recent years, Lal Kumar remained active in the judo community. Reports indicate his involvement with a free judo training center in Parmanandpur in 2025, and he led a training camp in Varanasi in 2026. The city honored him in January 2026 for his long-standing contributions to sport. Beyond titles and trophies, those who knew him remember him as a mentor who identified raw talent in remote areas, nurtured discipline and confidence....