Chandigarh
The National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), affiliated with the World Gatka Federation (WGF), will host the 2nd Federation Gatka Cup–2025 at Bengaluru City University, Karnataka, from November 7 to 9. The championship will bring together India’s finest young Gatka warriors for an intense display of martial skill, discipline, and courage rooted in the Sikh martial tradition.
Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal, NGAI President, and Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, Vice President of the International Sikh Martial Art Council, said that under-19 teams from ten states will compete in Gatka Soti and Farrie Soti events, in both individual and team categories. The competition will run alongside the 2nd National Cultural Pythian Games, celebrating India’s indigenous culture and martial heritage.
“The gold medalists from Bengaluru will earn direct selection to represent India at the inaugural International Pythian Cultural Games in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Gatka’s global journey,” said Grewal.
Grewal highlighted that NGAI’s affiliation with WGF and the Asian Gatka Federation (AGF) has helped take Gatka to the global stage, including recognition at multi-sport events like the National Cultural Pythian Games, Khelo India Youth Games, National Games, All India Inter-University Tournaments, and National School Games.
Harjinder Kumar, General Secretary of NGAI, and Baljit Singh Saini, Joint Secretary of the Gatka Association of Punjab, said the Bengaluru championship will serve as a key platform for young athletes to hone martial skills while embracing discipline and cultural values.
Grewal, who also heads WGF, announced that the first International Federation Gatka Cup will be organized next year, continuing the effort to elevate Gatka as a recognized international sport while preserving its rich cultural legacy.
