The ancient Indian martial art of Gatka has been accepted into the Pythian Cultural Games, with international competitions scheduled for next year in Moscow. Bijender Goel, the Chairman of the Pythian Council of India and the founder of the Pythian Games, confirmed this during the opening of the 12th National Gatka Championship in New Delhi. He pledged support for the World Gatka Federation, Asian Gatka Federation, and the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI) to help expand the recognition of Gatka internationally.
Shantanu Agrahari, president of the Pythian Council, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of the Pythian Games. Jarnail Singh, a Delhi MLA, recognized Gatka’s growing popularity as a sport and self-defense technique, encouraging both boys and girls to participate. Dr. Tejinderpal Singh Nalwa, President of the Asian Gatka Federation, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of NGAI, and Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, Acting President, noted that the inclusion in the Pythian Games marked a significant milestone for Gatka.
The event was also attended by several other prominent figures, including representatives from various Gurudwaras and state governments.