Farrie Soti – Shield & Stick Combat

Farrie Soti is a dynamic and skill-intensive event in competitive Gatka, wherein participants engage in martial duels using both a Soti (stick) and a Farrie (leather shield). In this format, the Soti symbolically embodies the sword while the Farrie represents the traditional shield, together creating a well-balanced blend of offensive and defensive techniques, deeply embedded in the martial heritage of Sikh tradition.

As enshrined in Sub-section 3 of Section 7 of the World Gatka Federation (WGF) International Gatka Rules Book, just as the Soti serves as a substitute for a sword, the Farrie functions as a replacement for the traditional war shield. The use of the Farrie is inherently defensive, reflecting the classical techniques of historical combat. According to the official Gatka rules, the simultaneous and independent use of both Soti and Farrie during combat is essential for every Gatkabaaz.

Design & Specifications of Farrie :

• Material: Leather / Rexene / Fibre

• Shape: Round (Circular)

• Standard Sizes by Age Group:

• Sub-Junior: 8-inch diameter

• Junior & Senior: 10-inch diameter

• Weight:

• Sub-Junior: 125 grams

• Junior & Senior: 175 grams

The Farrie is constructed with a handle for secure grip, engineered to be lightweight, durable and ergonomically designed, ensuring both mobility and protection during high-speed combat sequences.

Combat Usage & Technique :

• The Farrie is held in the non-dominant hand and is used solely for defensive functions, including:

• Blocking incoming strikes

• Deflecting angular attacks

• Shielding targeted body areas

• The Soti is wielded in the dominant hand to deliver controlled and strategic offensive strikes.

• A proficient Gatkabaaz must display the synchronized and skillful use of both Soti and Farrie, demonstrating mastery of timing, rhythm, agility and precision.

• As in standard Gatka Soti and Farrie bouts, players should employ the Paintra stance, utilizing two Ghurey (steps) for advancing strikes and matching defensive retreats with equal measure, all while maintaining spatial awareness within the arena.

Farrie Soti Event Categories :

1. Individual Event (1 vs 1)

• A direct, regulated combat between two Gatkabaaz, each equipped with a Soti and Farrie.

• Emphasizes shield mastery, alongside offensive application.

• Duration: 3 minutes (1.5 minutes per half, with a short break)

• Points are awarded for valid strikes, defensive execution, and overall technical command.

2. Team Event :

• Comprises 4 players, including one substitute per team.

• Conducted through individual matchups, with scores aggregated to determine the team outcome.

• Demands a high level of strategic planning and technical adaptability from the entire team.

3. Mixed Event (Male vs Female) :

• A co-educational format where male and female Gatkabaaz compete in a regulated duel.

• Celebrates gender inclusivity and showcases a balanced exhibition of skill and spirit.

• Reinforces Gatka’s core values of equality, courage and spiritual discipline, as taught in Sikh principles.

Significance of Farrie Soti in Gatka :

• Enhances the development of ambidextrous combat capability

• Fosters coordination, reflexes, body control and mental sharpness

• Upholds Gatka’s foundational ideal of self-defence and honourable warfare

• Promotes technical excellence and standardization, vital for international sport recognition and compliance

Note: Improper or non-use of Farrie, non-compliance with standard dimensions or weight, or breach of defensive conduct may lead to warnings or penalties, as stipulated under WGF competition rules.