Mixed Gender Event – Gatka Soti & Farrie Soti (Individual Format)

A Symbol of Equality, Skill & Spiritual Unity

The National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), under the aegis of the World Gatka Federation (WGF) and the Asian Gatka Federation (AGF), has pioneered the introduction of the Mixed Event in Gatka, in accordance with the WGF International Rules Book. This Mixed Event is a unique and progressive competition format wherein male and female athletes compete directly against each other in individual bouts across both Gatka Soti and Farrie Soti events. The initiative embodies the inclusive ethos of Sikh martial tradition, where gender is never a barrier in the pursuit of self-defence, spiritual discipline and martial excellence.

Structure of Mixed Event :

• The Mixed Event adheres to the same competition format, rules and bout duration as standard individual categories.

• Events included :

• Gatka Soti (Stick Combat)

• Farrie Soti (Stick & Shield Combat)

• The format is open to all official age categories, namely:

• Sub-Junior – Bhujhang (ਭੁਝੰਗ): Under 14

• Junior – Tufang (ਤੁਫੰਗ): Under 17

• Senior – Sool (ਸੂਲ): Under 19

• Saiff (ਸੈਫ): Under 22

• Sipar (ਸਿਪਰ): Under 25

• Siprar (ਸਿਪਰਾਰ): Under 28

• Duration of Bout: 3 minutes (1.5 minutes per half, with a brief interval)

• Scoring system, competition arena, athlete attire, combat techniques and equipment standards remain identical to those mandated by the World Gatka Federation International Rules Book.

Significance of the Mixed Event in Sikh Ethos : 

The mixed format finds its roots in Sikh martial history, where both men and women were equally trained in Shastar Vidya/Kala to uphold justice, righteousness and honour.

• Sikh history reveres legendary women warriors such as Mai Bhag Kaur Ji, who valiantly led Sikh women into battle, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts.

• As a martial discipline sanctified by the Sikh Gurus, Gatka inherently promotes gender equality, empowering equal participation, respect and representation.

The Mixed Event becomes a living expression of:

• The Sikh doctrine of oneness and non-discrimination

• Empowerment of all genders through martial capability

• The sacred Miri-Piri ideal – balancing temporal strength with spiritual insight

Alignment with International Olympic Committee (IOC) Recommendations :

The launch and encouragement of mixed-gender competitions is in full harmony with the International Olympic Committee’s vision for:

• Achieving gender parity in sports

• Ensuring balanced representation in competition

• Promoting inclusion, equity and diversity at all levels

By formally integrating the Mixed Gender Event into international competitions, the WGF and AGF are aligning with the IOC’s Olympic Agenda 2020 and 2025, further positioning Gatka as a culturally rich, inclusive and globally aspirational martial art.

Core Values Reinforced by Mixed Events :

• Equality and Inclusiveness

• Mutual Respect and Dignity

• Skill over Strength

• Spiritual and Physical Balance

• Promotion of Non-discriminatory Sporting Culture

Note: The Mixed Gender Event follows the same technical rules, scoring mechanisms, combat techniques and safety protocols as standard individual competitions. All participants must be formally registered and eligible as per the guidelines of the Asian Gatka Federation (AGF) and World Gatka Federation (WGF).