Chandigarh, October 10
The 13th National Gatka Championship, organized by the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI) in collaboration with the New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh, was inaugurated with great pomp and cultural fervor at Guru Nanak English Senior Secondary School, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, on Friday. The three-day event, running until October 12, celebrates India’s rich martial heritage and the indomitable spirit of Sikh history through the ancient art of Gatka, symbolizing valor, discipline, and cultural pride.
Inauguration Ceremony
The championship was officially launched by Vijay Baghel, Member of Parliament from the Durg constituency, as the Chief Guest, with Prem Prakash Pandey, a renowned social leader, as the Guest of Honour. The ceremony paid tribute to Lord Shiva through chanting of shlokas and was graced by prominent figures including:
- Harjeet Singh Grewal, President, NGAI and World Gatka Federation
- Jasbir Singh Chahal, Chairman, Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat
- Inderjeet Singh Chhotu, President, New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh
- Jaswant Singh Khalsa, Secretary
- Malkeet Singh Lallu
Dignitaries’ Addresses
MP Vijay Baghel commended the organizers and emphasized Gatka’s cultural significance: “Gatka is not merely a martial art; it is a historic tradition embodying India’s glorious past and the unyielding spirit of Sikh history. Promoting such indigenous heritage preserves our cultural identity and instills courage, discipline, and devotion in our youth, as taught by our revered Gurus.”
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Guest of Honour Prem Prakash Pandey expressed pride in hosting the event: “It is an honor for Chhattisgarh to host this national Gatka championship. This martial art promotes fitness, discipline, and inter-community harmony, safeguarding our cultural legacy.”
Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of NGAI and World Gatka Federation, reiterated the organization’s commitment: “NGAI and the World Gatka Federation are dedicated to preserving Gatka as both a traditional art and a modern sport. Through such championships, we prepare athletes for the global stage and aspire to see Gatka featured in international multi-sport events, including the Olympics.”
Competition Details
Over 400 boys and girls from 12 states across India are competing in individual and team events in Gatka Soti and Farrie Soti categories. The championship concludes on October 12 with the presentation of medals and certificates to winners.
Inderjeet Singh Chhotu announced that Chhattisgarh’s gold medalists will receive cash prizes and special honors as state-level facilities are provided to nurture their talent.
Community Support
The event received robust backing from community organizations, including:
- Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat
- Youth Sewa Committees
- Gurudwaras: Gurudwara Beche Janaki Ji (Zone-2 Khursipar), Gurudwara Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji (Camp-2 Bhilai), Gurudwara Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji (Housing Board Bhilai), Gurudwara Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (Camp Bhilai), Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha (Guru Nanak Nagar), Gurudwara Baba Budha Sahib Ji (Kohka), Gurudwara Baba Deep Singh Ji (Supela), Gurudwara Mata Gujri Ji (HUDCO), Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha (Sector-6)
- Sikh Youth Forum, Guru Nanak School (Sector 6), Punjabi Bhaichara, Punjabi Cultural and Welfare Association
Significance
The championship not only promotes Gatka as a sport but also reinforces its role in cultural preservation and youth empowerment. It serves as a platform for athletes to shine nationally while honoring India’s martial traditions rooted in Sikh history.
