Gatka included in International Pythian Games

For the first time, traditional martial art — “Gatka” — will feature at Pythian Cultural Games.

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Bijender Goel, chairman of the Pythian Council of India, said Gatka competitions will be held next year in Moscow. The announcement was made during the second day of the 12th National Gatka Championship at Talkatora Stadium.

Goel expressed support for the World Gatka Federation, Asian Gatka Federation and the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI) to promote the traditional martial art and expand its recognition as a competitive sport. “This inclusion marks a significant milestone in Gatka’s journey from a traditional martial art to an internationally recognised sport,” he said.

Shantanu Agrahari, president of the Pythian Council, highlighted the vision and cultural importance of the Pythian Games.

Delhi MLA Jarnail Singh, who was the chief guest, praised Gatka’s growing popularity as a sport and self-defence technique. He encouraged young boys and girls to take up Gatka.

Dr Tejinderpal Singh Nalwa, president of the Asian Gatka Federation, along with Harjeet Singh Grewal, chief of the NGAI, and Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, acting president, welcomed the inclusion of Gatka in the Pythian Games as a major step forward following its participation in National Sports, Khelo India Youth Games, National Games, National School Games and All India Inter-University Games.

The event was attended by Kulwinder Singh, chairman of Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, and representatives from several states, reinforcing the growing support for Gatka across India.