The 13th National Gatka Championship, organized by the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), commenced in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, on Friday with grandeur and cultural fervour at Guru Nanak English Senior Secondary School. The three-day event, hosted in collaboration with the New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh, celebrates India’s martial legacy and Sikh spiritual tradition through the ancient martial art of Gatka, symbolizing valour, discipline, and cultural pride.
The championship was inaugurated by Vijay Baghel, Member of Parliament from Durg constituency, as the chief guest. Prem Prakash Pandey, a distinguished social leader, graced the occasion as the guest of honour and presided over the ceremony.
The event was also attended by Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of NGAI, Jasbir Singh Chahal, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu, President of the New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh, Jaswant Singh Khalsa, Secretary, and Malkeet Singh Lallu, among several other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, MP Vijay Baghel lauded the organizers and emphasized Gatka’s cultural and historical importance, stating, “Gatka is not just a martial art—it is a historic tradition that reflects India’s glorious past and the indomitable spirit of Sikh history. Promoting such indigenous heritage preserves our cultural soul and instills in our youth the virtues of courage, discipline, and devotion taught by our revered Gurus.”
Speaking on the occasion, Prem Prakash Pandey remarked, “It is a moment of pride for Chhattisgarh to host a national Gatka tournament. This martial art not only promotes fitness and discipline but also strengthens inter-community harmony through its message of unity and cultural preservation.”
Expressing gratitude, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of NGAI and the World Gatka Federation, said, “The National Gatka Association and World Gatka Federation are committed to preserving and promoting Gatka as both a traditional art and a modern sport. Through such championships, we aim to prepare players for the global sporting arena. Our vision is to see Gatka represented in international multi-sport events, including the Olympics, in the near future.”
Providing further details, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu and Jaswant Singh Khalsa informed that more than 400 boys and girls from twelve states across India are participating in the championship, which will conclude on Sunday, October 12, with the presentation of medals and certificates to winners of various individual and team events in Gatka Soti and Farrie Soti.