Eastnor Castle: the Sikh connection - The Art of Gatka

Gatka is synonymous with the Sikh martial tradition and a major part of the heritage of the faith. It is a heritage tradition which is increasingly recognised in Britain.

This exhilarating, spiritual and physical martial art of the Sikhs has gained new popularity within Eastern and Western societies, in both the cultural and spiritual aspects. It has gained much strength and support from people of all ages, faiths, religions and cultures, including martial art practitioners and instructors from a variety of backgrounds and foundations. The art of Gatka has no separation between that which is mind, body and spirit. It is the unity of these three elements which contour A way of life – A balance – A rhythm of life – The Saint Soldier.

In its physical form, Gatka is the original feudal art of the ‘Saint Soldier ‘Khalsa’, for whom the way of life is the same as the art of war. The balance of fighting skills, religion, healing and philosophy are the elements, which consolidate into this great martial art. Through its own evolution, it has progressed through the years to its present position as a martial art of great valour.

Its theory techniques and methods have been handed down through the centuries and today have been moulded into an art which reflects the history and traditional valour of the Sikhs.