LONDON, July 17: Zora Singh of Baba Fateh Singh Akhara, Woolwich, emerged victorious in the Men’s Open category at the 12th UK Gatka Championship held in Ilford. The highly anticipated national tournament showcased the rich martial arts traditions of the Khalsa, drawing participants from nine distinct Gatka Akharas across regions including Warrington, Coventry, Derby, Leyton, Goodmayes, Gravesend, Woolwich, and Bow.
The annual event was organized under the leadership of Member of Parliament and Gatka Federation UK President Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi. The initiative received strong collaborative backing from the Singh Sabha London East Gurdwara and Sports Club, ensuring a robust framework for the competition.
World Gatka Federation President Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal shared insights regarding the tournament, stating that the formal inauguration commenced directly after the traditional Ardas ceremony. Following the opening rituals, the competitive stages advanced rapidly across multiple age brackets designed for boys, girls, women, and men.
In the premier Men’s Open division for participants aged eighteen and above, Zora Singh secured the ultimate title, while Gurdeep Singh representing the Damdami Taksal Akhara, Derby, affirmed his position as the runner-up. The Women’s division witnessed Kamalpreet Kaur of Damdami Taksal Akhara, Derby, claiming the top spot, closely followed by Karamjit Kaur in the second position.
The youth categories showcased remarkable talent, with Harshdeep Singh of Damdami Taksal Akhara securing first place in the Under-18 Boys category, ahead of Jaskirat Singh. The Under-18 Girls title was declared for Gursukhman Kaur of Akali Phoola Singh Akhara, with Harleen Kaur finishing second. In the Under-14 divisions, Yuvraj Singh asserted dominance for the boys, while Manroop Kaur of Akali Phoola Singh Akhara, Coventry, maintained the top spot for the girls.
Addressing the gathered congregation, MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi asserted that the championship remains a staple annual event made possible through the unwavering backing of the UK Sangat. He extended profound gratitude to the management of Gurdwara Singh Sabha London East Barking and Seven Kings, the Singh Sabha London East Sports Club, and the extensive network of volunteers.
The Gatka Federation UK maintained its core stance on community development, with organizers reaffirming their long-term commitment to promoting Sikh Shastar Vidya across the United Kingdom. The primary focus remains on encouraging younger generations to adopt the discipline, ensuring that historical heritage and self-defence values remain preserved.
The successful execution of the event involved extensive coordination from key figures, including Gatka Federation UK General Secretary Harman Singh Johal, Gurdwara President Satnam Singh Sandhu, Gurdeep Singh Hundal, and sports club representatives such as Pinder Singh Bharoli and Lehmber Singh Ladhar.
The tournament also drew significant dignitaries and media presence, including MP Jas Athwal, alongside representatives from Punjab Radio, Punjab TV, Ajit, Punjab Times, Jan Shakti, Akaal Channel, Sikh Channel, GTC, and PTC, all witnessing the preservation of traditional martial arts on a national stage.
