13th national Gatka championship : Punjab Gatkabaz emerge national champions, Chhattisgarh players win hearts as runners-up

Education Minister Gajendra Yadav says Gatka game to be promoted in schools, colleges across Chhattisgarh

Bhilai, October 12, 2025 : The 13th National Gatka Championship 2025, organized by the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), concluded today in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, with a spectacular display of traditional martial artistry and sporting excellence. After three days of intense competition, Punjab Gatkabaz were crowned overall champions, while the Chhattisgarh contingent captured hearts with their spirited performance, clinching the runners-up title through sheer determination, precision, and perseverance.
In the boys’ category, Punjab secured the first position with exceptional skill and technique, followed by Chhattisgarh in second place, while Haryana and Uttarakhand shared the third position.
In the girls’ category, Chhattisgarh’s players delivered an outstanding performance to claim the first position, Chandigarh stood second and Punjab and Haryana jointly took the third spot.
Chhattisgarh’s Minister for Education and Rural Industries, Gajendra Yadav, graced the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest and presented medals and certificates to the winners.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister remarked that the Gatka is not merely a sport but a glorious part of India’s martial heritage that instills discipline, courage and self-control.” He assured that the Government of Chhattisgarh would actively promote Gatka across schools, colleges and universities, encouraging youth participation in this traditional martial art that embodies valor and spiritual strength.
Commending the successful organization of the event, Yadav congratulated the National Gatka Association of India and the New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh, for hosting a championship that beautifully represented India’s cultural identity and inspired national unity through sport.
Vaishali Nagar MLA, Rikesh Sen, appreciated the dedication and sportsmanship of the players, noting that the discipline, respect and teamwork displayed by Gatka athletes set an inspiring example for every young sportsperson in India. He further urged the youth of Chhattisgarh to actively participate in Gatka and bring pride to the state through this martial art.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Manish Pandey, Executive Member of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, Purushottam Dewangan, BJP District President, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of the National Gatka Association of India, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu, Executive Member of the Asian Gatka Federation and President of the New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh, Jaswant Singh, General Secretary and Jasbir Singh Chahal, President of the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat.
NGAI President Harjeet Singh Grewal commended the exemplary performances and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to expanding Gatka’s reach across all Indian states, ensuring its continued growth and recognition at the national and international levels.
During the closing ceremony, outstanding performers were felicitated for their achievements. The Junior Gatka Star award was bagged by Satwant Singh Khalsa of Chandigarh, while Suneha, also from Chandigarh, received the Best Performer award. The Most Promising Player title went to Ramandeep Singh of Punjab. Dimple Kumari from Chhattisgarh was adjudged the Best Gatka-Soti Player and Jaskirat Singh from Haryana earned the Best Farrie-Soti Player honour. Jagjot Singh from Uttarakhand was declared the Best Gatkabaz, while Ishpreet Kaur of Punjab was named the Best Gatkabaz (Female)
The championship concluded amidst applause and celebration, marking another milestone in the journey of reviving and popularizing Gatka, India’s ancient martial art rooted in Sikh heritage.

13th national Gatka championship : Punjab Gatkabaz emerge national champions, Chhattisgarh players win hearts as runners-up

Gajendra Yadav says Gatka game to be promoted in schools, colleges across Chhattisgarh

Bhilai, October 12, 2025 : The 13th National Gatka Championship 2025, organized by the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), concluded today in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, with a spectacular display of traditional martial artistry and sporting excellence. After three days of intense competition, Punjab Gatkabaz were crowned overall champions, while the Chhattisgarh contingent captured hearts with their spirited performance, clinching the runners-up title through sheer determination, precision, and perseverance.

In the boys’ category, Punjab secured the first position with exceptional skill and technique, followed by Chhattisgarh in second place, while Haryana and Uttarakhand shared the third position.

In the girls’ category, Chhattisgarh’s players delivered an outstanding performance to claim the first position, Chandigarh stood second and Punjab and Haryana jointly took the third spot.

Chhattisgarh’s Minister for Education and Rural Industries, Gajendra Yadav, graced the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest and presented medals and certificates to the winners.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister remarked that the Gatka is not merely a sport but a glorious part of India’s martial heritage that instills discipline, courage and self-control.” He assured that the Government of Chhattisgarh would actively promote Gatka across schools, colleges and universities, encouraging youth participation in this traditional martial art that embodies valor and spiritual strength.

Commending the successful organization of the event, Yadav congratulated the National Gatka Association of India and the New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh, for hosting a championship that beautifully represented India’s cultural identity and inspired national unity through sport.

Vaishali Nagar MLA, Rikesh Sen, appreciated the dedication and sportsmanship of the players, noting that the discipline, respect and teamwork displayed by Gatka athletes set an inspiring example for every young sportsperson in India. He further urged the youth of Chhattisgarh to actively participate in Gatka and bring pride to the state through this martial art.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Manish Pandey, Executive Member of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, Purushottam Dewangan, BJP District President, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of the National Gatka Association of India, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu, Executive Member of the Asian Gatka Federation and President of the New Gatka Sports Association, Chhattisgarh, Jaswant Singh, General Secretary and Jasbir Singh Chahal, President of the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat.

NGAI President Harjeet Singh Grewal commended the exemplary performances and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to expanding Gatka’s reach across all Indian states, ensuring its continued growth and recognition at the national and international levels.

During the closing ceremony, outstanding performers were felicitated for their achievements. The Junior Gatka Star award was bagged by Satwant Singh Khalsa of Chandigarh, while Suneha, also from Chandigarh, received the Best Performer award. The Most Promising Player title went to Ramandeep Singh of Punjab. Dimple Kumari from Chhattisgarh was adjudged the Best Gatka-Soti Player and Jaskirat Singh from Haryana earned the Best Farrie-Soti Player honour. Jagjot Singh from Uttarakhand was declared the Best Gatkabaz, while Ishpreet Kaur of Punjab was named the Best Gatkabaz (Female) 

The championship concluded amidst applause and celebration, marking another milestone in the journey of reviving and popularizing Gatka, India’s ancient martial art rooted in Sikh heritage.

Gatka reflects India’s glorious martial heritage rooted in Sikh history: MP Vijay Baghel

13th national Gatka championship kicks off grandly in Bhilai

Bhilai, October 10, 2025 – Three days 13th National Gatka Championship, organised by National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), kicks off here on Friday with grandeur and cultural zeal at Guru Nanak English Senior Secondary School, Bhilai. The three-day event, hosted in collaboration with New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh, marks a proud celebration of India’s martial legacy and Sikh spiritual tradition through the ancient martial art of Gatka, symbolizing valour, discipline and cultural pride.

This national competition was inaugurated by chief guest Vijay Baghel, Member of Parliament, Durg constituency, while guest of honour Prem Prakash Pandey, a distinguished social leader, presided over the event. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Harjeet Singh Grewal, President, National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), Jasbir Singh Chahal, Chairman Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu, President New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh, Jaswant Singh Khalsa Secretary and Malkeet Singh Lallu, among several prominent dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, chief guest Vijay Baghel commended the organizers and highlighted Gatka’s cultural significance, stating: “Gatka is not just a martial art, it is a historic tradition reflecting 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.”

On the occasion guest of honour Prem Prakash Pandey remarked: “It is a moment of pride for Chhattisgarh to host a national tournament of Gatka game. 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 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 preparing the players for the global sporting arena. Our vision is to see Gatka represented in international multisport events including the Olympics in coming times.”

Providing more details, Inderjeet Singh Chhotu and Jaswant Singh Khalsa informed that more than 400 boys and girls from twelve states across India are participating in this championship, which would 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.

Inderjit Singh Chotu announced that the gold medal winners of Chhattisgarh state would get cash prizes as sports facilities and be honoured specially for bringing laurels for the state.

The championship received wholehearted support from various community organizations including the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat, Youth Sewa Committees and several Gurudwaras include 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, Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat, Sikh Youth Seva Samiti, Guru Nanak School sector 6, Punjabi Bhaichara, Sikh Youth Forum, Guru Nanak Senior Secondary School and Punjabi Cultural and Welfare Association.

Three days 13th National Gatka Championship at Chhattisgarh from October 10

Chandigarh, October 2, 2025: The National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), affiliated with World Gatka Federation and Asian Gatka Federation, is organising its 13th National Gatka (Men and Women) Championship from October 10 to 12, 2025 at Guru Nanak English Senior Secondary School, Bhilai, district Durg in Chhattisgarh. This national-level martial arts tournament is being organised in association with New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh and would feature participation of Gatka teams from various states competing in a series of thrilling individual and team events in Gatka Soti and Farrie-Soti over three days.

                Starting more about the event, Harjeet Singh Grewal, State Awardee and president of the NGAI, said the championship is being organized with the objective of preserving, promoting and professionalizing the traditional Sikh martial art of Gatka, while providing a national platform for emerging athletes to showcase their talent.

                He said “This championship is part of our long-term ‘Vision Document–2030’ to elevate Gatka from a traditional martial art to an internationally recognized sport. Our aim is to make it Olympic-ready by enhancing technical standards, ensuring gender equality through mixed combat events and adopting IT-based tournament management systems.”

                Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, acting president and Harjinder Kumar, general secretary of the NGAI, added, “We are committed to providing our youth with safe, competitive platforms to celebrate our heritage. This championship is a testament to the growing popularity of Gatka and our association’s efforts to promote it at national and global levels.”

                Gatka promoter Grewal informed that opening ceremony would be held on October 10 while the concluding ceremony on October 12 would honour top-performing athletes with medals, trophies, and certificates. The NGAI warmly invites sports enthusiasts, cultural patrons and the general public to witness the electrifying bouts and support India’s Gatka warriors in this historic event.

11th UK National Gatka Championship concludes on high note at Cardiff-first ever in Wales: Tan Dhesi MP – Copy

Roop Kaur, Navjot Singh and Gurdeep Singh won first positions


Gatka Federation UK presents £1,000 each to all participating Gatka Akharas for martial art promotion

Cardiff, September 16, 2025 – The 11th UK National Gatka Championship concluded on a high note near Cardiff, Wales showcasing the traditional Sikh martial art skills with passion and flair. Gatka players from seven prominent Gatka Akharas displayed electrifying skills, thrilling the audience with their lightning-fast strikes, moves and graceful techniques.

The championship was inaugurated by chief guest Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of World Gatka Federation (WGF) and National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), alongside Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, Member of Parliament from Slough and President of the Gatka Federation UK, Jagbir Singh Jagga Chakar, President Wales Kabaddi Club, Jaspal Singh Dhesi and Kewal Singh Randeva of Haveli Hotel Pontyclun. 

Announcing the results, MP Tan Dhesi, who is Chairman of the influential House of Commons Defence Committee, said the annual tournaments highlighted the growing enthusiasm for Gatka sport among the UK’s younger generation.

In the championship all the competitions were held in Farrie-Soti (individual events). In the girls category u-14 years, Roop Kaur of Akali Phoola Singh Gatka Akhara Coventry secured first place by defeating her teammate Manroop Kaur. The third prize went to Rihanna Kaur of Baba Banda Singh Gatka Akhara Gravesend.

In the boys category u-17 years, Navjot Singh of Baba Fateh Singh Gatka Akhara Woolwich emerged victorious against fellow Akhara player Jashan Singh. Dharam Singh and Tejveer Singh, both from Akali Phoola Singh Gatka Akhara Coventry, shared the third spot.

In the men’s category above 18 years, Gurdeep Singh of Jangi Horses Club Wolverhampton claimed first position after overcoming Kuldeep Singh of Baba Banda Singh Gatka Akhara Gravesend. Anmoldeep Singh and Nihal Singh, both representing Baba Mitt Singh Gatka Akhara Wolverhampton, jointly bagged third place.

All the winners were honoured with medals and trophies, while all participating Gatka Akharas received generous cash prizes of £1,000 each from the Gatka Federation UK to strengthen training facilities and encourage wider participation.

Speaking at the event, Harjeet Singh Grewal applauded MP Dhesi for his relentless efforts in organising Gatka competitions and promoting Gatka in the UK since 2013. He assured the UK Federation of full support from the WGF and NGAI in further elevating the sport in Britain.

In his address, MP Dhesi congratulated all the winners, volunteers and participants, and expressed gratitude to the Gurdwara management committees of Swansea and Cardiff for their vital role in making the event a resounding success.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Herman Singh Johal, General Secretary of Gatka Federation UK, Khushwant Singh and Jit Singh Arora from Swansea Gurdwara committee, Sangat Singh Garib from Cardiff Gurdwara committee, Kuldeep Singh Padda, Tarjeet Singh Sandhu, Gurnam Nijjar, Jeetpal Sidhu, Parminder Sujapur, Randhir Randawa, Balbir Brar, Saheb Singh Dhesi, Taran Singh Nihang of Cardiff, Manpreet Singh Badhni Kalan, Akaal Channel team, Amanjeet Singh Sikh Channel, Amanjit Singh Khaira of Jan Shakti News and others.

11th UK National Gatka Championship at Swansea on Sept 14 : Tan Dhesi – Copy

Event to witness showcase of discipline, martial skills and cultural heritage : Harjeet Grewal

Chandigarh, September 10, 2025 – The Gatka Federation UK, in association with World Gatka Federation, is going to organise 11th UK National Gatka Championship on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at the Bay Sports Park, Swansea, Wales. Gatka teams from across the UK will participate in this Gatka competition.

Highlighting the importance of series of events in UK, President of the World Gatka Federation and National Gatka Association of India, Harjeet Singh Grewal, State Awardee, said this annual event is also an effort to promote and conserve Sikh culture and martial art among younger people to lead a and healthy lifestyle. “We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and growing participation in Gatka game in UK, a martial art that instills self-control and confidence alongside physical prowess,” Gatka promoter Grewal added.

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP from Slough and President of the Gatka Federation UK stated that the event connects youth with their cultural background and encourages a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.

The championship would witness competitions across various age brackets in Gatka Soti and Farrie-Soti, demonstrating the skills and techniques of Gatka players (Gatkabaz) and also feature martial art demonstrations. The event is supported by local Gurdwara Sahib management and the community (Sangat). Appealing the public to join this event, Tan Dhesi said it is free and open to the everyone, offering a family-friendly cultural experience. Langar (community kitchen) and refreshments would be provided, reflecting the Sikh value of selfless service.

Mentionably, Gatka, an integral part of Sikh martial art, is a stick-fighting discipline that combines physical skills,  constant eye-gazing, swift footwork, fitness and spiritual tradition, emphasising self-defense and self-control.

11th UK National Gatka Championship concludes on high note at Cardiff-first ever in Wales: Tan Dhesi MP

Roop Kaur, Navjot Singh and Gurdeep Singh won first positions


Gatka Federation UK presents £1,000 each to all participating Gatka Akharas for martial art promotion

Cardiff, September 16, 2025 – The 11th UK National Gatka Championship concluded on a high note near Cardiff, Wales showcasing the traditional Sikh martial art skills with passion and flair. Gatka players from seven prominent Gatka Akharas displayed electrifying skills, thrilling the audience with their lightning-fast strikes, moves and graceful techniques.

The championship was inaugurated by chief guest Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of World Gatka Federation (WGF) and National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), alongside Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, Member of Parliament from Slough and President of the Gatka Federation UK, Jagbir Singh Jagga Chakar, President Wales Kabaddi Club, Jaspal Singh Dhesi and Kewal Singh Randeva of Haveli Hotel Pontyclun. 

Announcing the results, MP Tan Dhesi, who is Chairman of the influential House of Commons Defence Committee, said the annual tournaments highlighted the growing enthusiasm for Gatka sport among the UK’s younger generation.

In the championship all the competitions were held in Farrie-Soti (individual events). In the girls category u-14 years, Roop Kaur of Akali Phoola Singh Gatka Akhara Coventry secured first place by defeating her teammate Manroop Kaur. The third prize went to Rihanna Kaur of Baba Banda Singh Gatka Akhara Gravesend.

In the boys category u-17 years, Navjot Singh of Baba Fateh Singh Gatka Akhara Woolwich emerged victorious against fellow Akhara player Jashan Singh. Dharam Singh and Tejveer Singh, both from Akali Phoola Singh Gatka Akhara Coventry, shared the third spot.

In the men’s category above 18 years, Gurdeep Singh of Jangi Horses Club Wolverhampton claimed first position after overcoming Kuldeep Singh of Baba Banda Singh Gatka Akhara Gravesend. Anmoldeep Singh and Nihal Singh, both representing Baba Mitt Singh Gatka Akhara Wolverhampton, jointly bagged third place.

All the winners were honoured with medals and trophies, while all participating Gatka Akharas received generous cash prizes of £1,000 each from the Gatka Federation UK to strengthen training facilities and encourage wider participation.

Speaking at the event, Harjeet Singh Grewal applauded MP Dhesi for his relentless efforts in organising Gatka competitions and promoting Gatka in the UK since 2013. He assured the UK Federation of full support from the WGF and NGAI in further elevating the sport in Britain.

In his address, MP Dhesi congratulated all the winners, volunteers and participants, and expressed gratitude to the Gurdwara management committees of Swansea and Cardiff for their vital role in making the event a resounding success.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Herman Singh Johal, General Secretary of Gatka Federation UK, Khushwant Singh and Jit Singh Arora from Swansea Gurdwara committee, Sangat Singh Garib from Cardiff Gurdwara committee, Kuldeep Singh Padda, Tarjeet Singh Sandhu, Gurnam Nijjar, Jeetpal Sidhu, Parminder Sujapur, Randhir Randawa, Balbir Brar, Saheb Singh Dhesi, Taran Singh Nihang of Cardiff, Manpreet Singh Badhni Kalan, Akaal Channel team, Amanjeet Singh Sikh Channel, Amanjit Singh Khaira of Jan Shakti News and others.

11th UK National Gatka Championship at Swansea on Sept 14 : Tan Dhesi

Event to witness showcase of discipline, martial skills and cultural heritage : Harjeet Grewal

Chandigarh, September 10, 2025 – The Gatka Federation UK, in association with World Gatka Federation, is going to organise 11th UK National Gatka Championship on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at the Bay Sports Park, Swansea, Wales. Gatka teams from across the UK will participate in this Gatka competition.

Highlighting the importance of series of events in UK, President of the World Gatka Federation and National Gatka Association of India, Harjeet Singh Grewal, State Awardee, said this annual event is also an effort to promote and conserve Sikh culture and martial art among younger people to lead a and healthy lifestyle. “We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and growing participation in Gatka game in UK, a martial art that instills self-control and confidence alongside physical prowess,” Gatka promoter Grewal added.

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP from Slough and President of the Gatka Federation UK stated that the event connects youth with their cultural background and encourages a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.

The championship would witness competitions across various age brackets in Gatka Soti and Farrie-Soti, demonstrating the skills and techniques of Gatka players (Gatkabaz) and also feature martial art demonstrations. The event is supported by local Gurdwara Sahib management and the community (Sangat). Appealing the public to join this event, Tan Dhesi said it is free and open to the everyone, offering a family-friendly cultural experience. Langar (community kitchen) and refreshments would be provided, reflecting the Sikh value of selfless service.

Mentionably, Gatka, an integral part of Sikh martial art, is a stick-fighting discipline that combines physical skills,  constant eye-gazing, swift footwork, fitness and spiritual tradition, emphasising self-defense and self-control.