Hobbies
Fact-checked

At Sports&Hobbies, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Gatka?

C. Ausbrooks
C. Ausbrooks

Gatka is a form of martial arts primarily practiced by followers of the Sikh religion. It focuses on physical, mental, and spiritual training. The word Gatka literally translates fropm the Punjabi to “one whose freedom belongs to grace.” It is also the name given to the practice stick used in the martial art. The practice is no longer used in combat, but like many other martial arts, has become a form of competition.

According to Sikhism, Gatka was given to Guru Nanak Dev by a divine spirit in the 15th century. This divine martial art was taught to an army of Sikh warriors, and even Gurus of the religion trained in Gatka, believing in a warrior-saint ideal. The art was passed down through the generations until the 1800s when the Shaster Vidiya began to train a more ritualistic version to the British Indian army. Later, the merging British and Indian cultures caused the implementation of European fencing rules into Gatka. This resulted in the formation of two basic forms of the art, ritualistic, or rasmi, and sport, or khel.

Gatka is a form of martial arts focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual training.
Gatka is a form of martial arts focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual training.

There are three basic principles of Gatka. These are ease of learning, diversity of weapons, and the ability to fight multiple opponents. A primary teaching of the martial art is the movement of the entire body in unison as one complete weapon, and response without any hesitation. All attack and defense methods are determined by the current position of the feet, hands, and weapons. Rasmi Gatka is usually performed in time with a three-beat drum cycle, to help coordinate movement and promote focus.

Gatka is a form of martial arts primarily practiced by followers of the Sikh religion.
Gatka is a form of martial arts primarily practiced by followers of the Sikh religion.

The use of weapons that involve both the right and left hand is favored. This practice is believed to encourage the body to work together, and to display no weak points. Masters of the art are often ambidextrous, meaning they can use both their right and left hands with equal skill. Gatka is trained in groups, and usually in a religious atmosphere. Institutes that teach solely Gatka and sometimes Pehlwani, an Indian wrestling style, are commonplace in India.

Rules from the European martial art of fencing were implemented into Gatka after the 1800s.
Rules from the European martial art of fencing were implemented into Gatka after the 1800s.

Gatka supports a large variety of weapons, including swords called tulwars, bamboo rods called lathi, and whips, chains, and throwing weapons called chakram. Because the movement patterns, weapon choices, and individual style all play a role in the practice, many people that have received the same training have developed personalized fighting styles. The sword and shield, and lathi, are the two most common weapon choices. In battle, Gatka warriors were known for their unparalleled fighting skills and great courage.

Discussion Comments

bluedolphin

@stoneMason-- Yes, there are a few places in the US where Gatka is taught but it's not available everywhere. I live in California and there is a Gatka school here. In fact, my nephew has signed up for it and is learning the techniques.

If there is a Punjab association in your area, you can ask them if they have any information on this. If you live in an area with a large Indian, Punjabi population, you will probably find a place that offers Gatka. If not, I'm afraid it's probably not available.

Gatka hasn't really caught on in the States, but I suspect it will become more popular in the coming years as more people take interest in it.

stoneMason

Gatka is very cool. I've seen it in documentaries and films. I wish I could learn this martial art. Does anyone know if Gatka classes are offered in the US?

donasmrs

As far as I know, Sikhs today are still known for their great courage and fighting skills. I have a close Indian friend and he told me that Sikhs played a huge role during the Indian independence movement and they are known as the bravest and most honest people. I think the Indian Military forces also have a great number of Sikhs.

I didn't know that Sikhs also have their own fighting techniques but it's not surprising since they are warriors.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Gatka is a form of martial arts focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual training.
      By: ericcote
      Gatka is a form of martial arts focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual training.
    • Gatka is a form of martial arts primarily practiced by followers of the Sikh religion.
      By: Kadmy
      Gatka is a form of martial arts primarily practiced by followers of the Sikh religion.
    • Rules from the European martial art of fencing were implemented into Gatka after the 1800s.
      By: olly
      Rules from the European martial art of fencing were implemented into Gatka after the 1800s.