Gatka Classes

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Gatka has its roots in the Sikh martial tradition, dating back to the time of the Sikh Gurus in the 16th century. It was developed as a means of self-defense and combat training for Sikhs during a period of conflict. The term “Gatka” originally referred to a wooden stick used in combat, but over time, it evolved into a comprehensive martial art incorporating various weapons and hand-to-hand techniques.

In Gatka, practitioners wield a wooden stick (usually 91–107 cm long) with a fitted leather hilt. The shield, known as “phari,” complements the stick. Made of dry leather and filled with cotton or dry grass, it protects the hand during full-contact hits. Gatka’s techniques were taught by the Sikh gurus and have been passed down through generations of ustāds (masters) in various akharas (arenas) worldwide.

Gatka serves dual purposes: defending righteousness (dharam) and achieving a union of spirit and body (miri piri).

During the Second Anglo-Sikh War, the British administrators banned Gatka in the mid-19th century. However, it resurfaced with modifications, applying sword-fighting techniques to wooden training sticks.

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