Bruce Lee's legacy is not easy to put into words. From his contributions to martial arts and Jeet Kune Do to action cinema, Lee's teachings remain relevant to this day. Even 53 years after his passing, his gravesite in Seattle stays crowded and loved.

On the anniversary of the legend this year, on July 20, retired Serbian bodybuilder Milos Sarcev paid his tribute to the martial arts great, personally visiting his tomb in the Lake View Cemetery in Washington, US.

Posting the pictures from his visit on Instagram, Sarcev shed light on the lasting impression Bruce Lee has left in people's hearts even after 53 years of his passing. His son, Brandon Lee, is also buried right beside his headstone.

As the Instagram carousel showed, Lee's headstone was adorned with flowers and incense. In one of the pictures, Sarcev bowed down in front of the tomb, highlighting his love and respect for Lee.

Moreover, as the IFBB Pro wrote in the caption, Lee was his "childhood hero—and forever my idol." He remembered the icon as a symbol of discipline, originality, courage, and "relentless" self-improvement.

He capped off the post with numerous teachings of the Jeet Kune Do founder, including his famous quote: "Be water, my friend," as a metaphor for adaptability and fluidity in martial arts.

The Japanese politician and former pro wrestling valet, Hiroko "Betty" Suzuki, also accompanied Sarcev in his visit. But it's not just athletes paying tributes to the legend. California has chimed in too.

California officially honors Bruce Lee ahead of his 53rd passing anniversary

A little over two weeks ago, California Governor Gavin Newsom officially designated May 17 as Bruce Lee Day.

Signing the legislation on July 2nd, Lee became the first Chinese American to receive an annual namesake day in CA's history.

This was the day an 18-year-old combat standout returned to his birthplace in San Francisco after growing up in Hong Kong. Lee's daughter, Shannon Lee, welcomed the honor as a recognition of his cultural impact.

“From young people who found confidence and possibility in his philosophy, to families who finally saw themselves represented on screen, to athletes who still draw on his teachings of discipline and inner strength, his reach is profound,” Shannon Lee's statement read, as published by AP News.

More than five decades after his passing, Bruce Lee's philosophy continues to inspire generations across sports, fitness, and beyond. What's something you have learned from Bruce Lee?

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Written by

Proma Chatterjee