The 12th State Gatka (Girls) Championship–2026 organised by the Gatka Association of Punjab in collaboration with the Gatka Association District Faridkot commenced with fanfare today at Baba Farid Gurukul Group of Colleges, Kotkapura district Faridkot. The event began with Ardas followed by resounding Jaikaras, setting a spirited tone for the competition.
The championship was formally inaugurated jointly by Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of World Gatka Federation and National Gatka Association of India, along with Giani Shamsher Singh, Head Granthi of Budha Dal (Chakravarti), Jathedar Sher Singh Mand, General Secretary of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee and S. Mantaar Singh Brar, former Parliamentary Secretary.
On the occasion, participating players and members of the Referee Council were administered an oath of discipline and impartial adjudication. The championship is being conducted under the supervision of Dr. Manjit Singh Dhillon, President of Gatka Association district Faridkot, Chairman Kultar Singh Brar, Harbir Singh Duggal, President of Gatka Association of Punjab, General Secretary Talwinder Singh, National Coach Narinder Pal Singh Paras and Press Secretary Gurinder Singh Mahindratta.
The event will conclude on May 3 at 10:00 AM at the Gurukul College premises, where Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan will grace the occasion as Chief Guest and honour the winning teams. Dr. Pritam Singh Chhokar, Managing Director of the college, extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and participants.
Addressing the gathering, former MLA Mantaar Singh Brar described the initiative of empowering girls through self-defence and martial arts as highly commendable. He also lauded Dr. Manjit Singh Dhillon for his dedicated service to humanity and his valuable contributions to the field of education.
Jathedar Sher Singh Mand expressed gratitude to the organisers and encouraged the participants, announcing a financial contribution of Rs 2 lakh towards the championship. He further stated that uninterrupted Langar service would be provided by the SGPC for the event.
In his address, Gatka promoter Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal emphasised that continuous efforts are being made to encourage both boys and girls to take up Gatka alongside other Sikh sports. He noted that the championship would provide a meaningful platform to talented players from across the state who are carrying forward the legacy of this ancient Sikh martial art.
The competition, he added, represents a unique blend of martial skill, discipline, tradition, and cultural ethos. He further informed that over 250 girls from 11 districts are participating across various age categories, offering a valuable opportunity for players of all age groups to showcase and test their abilities at a competitive level.