New Delhi, June 13 –Gatka has been officially included in the Pythian Cultural Games, with international competitions set to take place next year in Moscow. The announcement came from Bijender Goel, Chairman of the Pythian Council of India and Founder of the revived Pythian Games, during the second day of the 12th National Gatka Championship at New Delhi’s Talkatora Stadium.
Addressing athletes and dignitaries at the event, Goel assured full support for the global expansion of Gatka. “The World Gatka Federation, Asian Gatka Federation, and the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI) can count on our commitment to promote Gatka internationally. Its inclusion in the Pythian Games reflects its cultural and sporting relevance,” he said.
The Pythian Games, rooted in ancient Greek tradition and revived to celebrate global cultural and artistic expressions, will now host Gatka on the international stage alongside music, visual arts, and performance-based sports.
Shantanu Agrahari, IAS, and President of the Pythian Council, emphasized the broader vision behind the Games. “The Pythian Games are not just about sport; they represent the unity of culture, heritage, and talent. Gatka’s place in this forum is both symbolic and timely,” he said.
Chief guest and Delhi MLA Jarnail Singh applauded the growing stature of Gatka in Indian sport. “This martial art is not just a tradition, it’s a practical, empowering tool of self-defense. I urge youth—both boys and girls—to embrace Gatka as a way of life,” Singh told the gathering, before distributing awards to winning athletes.
Speaking jointly, Dr. Tejinderpal Singh Nalwa, President of the Asian Gatka Federation, Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of NGAI, and Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, Acting President, called the inclusion a watershed moment. “From National Sports to Khelo India, and now the Pythian Games — Gatka is crossing borders. This recognition will inspire future generations and boost India’s martial heritage on the world stage,” they said.
The championship drew participation from across the country, and the guest list reflected nationwide enthusiasm. Dignitaries included Kulwinder Singh, Chairman of Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, and cultural leaders such as Kalpana Swami from Chhattisgarh, Vishal Singh (Telangana), Pandurang Ambure (Maharashtra), Paramjeet Singh (Madhya Pradesh), Prince Mishra (Jharkhand), Surendra Reddy (Andhra Pradesh), and Gurmeet Singh Rana and Angad Singh from Delhi.
With international platforms opening up, Gatka’s journey from Punjab’s martial tradition to a global cultural arena is now well underway.
