A Celebration of Sikh Martial Heritage
By Sports Desk, Samvad Patar
Swansea, Wales – The traditional Sikh martial art of Gatka will once again take centre stage in the United Kingdom, as the Gatka Federation UK, in association with the World Gatka Federation, gears up to host the 11th UK National Gatka Championship on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Bay Sports Park, Swansea. Teams from across the UK are expected to participate, making this event one of the most significant showcases of Gatka outside India.
The Legacy of Gatka: From Battlefields to Sports Arenas
Gatka, a martial tradition deeply rooted in Sikh history, dates back to the 17th century. It evolved as a defensive art during the era of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who emphasized the need for Sikhs to be saint-soldiers — spiritually enlightened yet martially prepared. Historically, Gatka was practiced with swords and shields on the battlefield. Over time, it has been codified into a sport, most commonly played with wooden sticks (Soti) representing traditional weapons.
Today, Gatka is not just a reminder of Sikh bravery and discipline but also a structured sporting activity recognized in many countries, including India, the UK, Canada, and the US. In India, it has gained official recognition from sports authorities, paving the way for national-level tournaments and inclusion in youth festivals. Globally, federations are striving to promote Gatka both as a competitive sport and as a cultural legacy.
The UK Chapter and Organised Efforts
The Gatka Federation UK, under the leadership of Slough MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, has been instrumental in bringing Sikh martial arts into the mainstream sports calendar of Britain. Working closely with the World Gatka Federation and the National Gatka Association of India, the Federation has successfully organized annual championships for over a decade. These events provide a platform for British Sikh youth to reconnect with their heritage while also encouraging diversity and inclusion in sports.
Speaking ahead of the event, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of the World Gatka Federation and National Gatka Association of India, who has been honored with a State Award for his contributions, emphasized the broader vision:
“This annual event is not just about competition but about conserving and promoting our culture. Gatka instills self-control, confidence, and physical strength. We are delighted to see the rising participation and enthusiasm for Gatka in the UK.”
Echoing this sentiment, Tan Dhesi, MP for Slough and President of Gatka Federation UK, said the championship goes beyond sport:
“It is a way to connect the younger generation with their cultural roots, while also encouraging a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.”
Championship Highlights
The 11th UK National Gatka Championship will feature competitions across multiple age brackets, with athletes — known as Gatkabaz — displaying their agility, speed, and precision in Soti and Farrie-Soti categories. The event will also host martial art demonstrations to inspire both participants and spectators.
Community involvement is central to the championship. Local Gurdwaras and members of the Sikh Sangat are supporting the event, which is free and open to the public. Families attending can also partake in Langar (community kitchen) and refreshments, reinforcing the Sikh principle of selfless service (seva).
More Than a Sport
While Gatka is practiced with sticks in its modern sporting format, its essence goes beyond physical combat. It is a discipline that sharpens focus, enhances reflexes, and fosters respect and humility. The balance of physical strength with spiritual grounding makes it unique among martial traditions. For many young Sikhs in the UK, Gatka serves as a bridge — connecting them to their ancestral values while giving them the confidence to thrive in modern society.
Looking Ahead
The sustained growth of Gatka in the UK is a testament to the joint efforts of federations, community leaders, and volunteers. As the 11th UK National Championship unfolds in Swansea, it symbolizes not just the preservation of a martial art but the strengthening of cultural identity in the diaspora. With increasing recognition worldwide, Gatka’s future as both a sport and a cultural movement looks promising.
The organisers have extended an open invitation to families and sports enthusiasts across the UK to attend this championship on September 14, promising a vibrant blend of competition, culture, and community spirit.
