Bengaluru, November 7, 2025 – The 2nd Federation Gatka Cup 2025 kicked off on Thursday at Bengaluru City University, inaugurated by Bijender Goel, founder of Modern Pythian Cultural Games and PCI Chairman. The ceremony was attended by Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal, B.H. Anil Kumar, Sneha Venkatramani, and other Gatka officials along with athletes representing states from across the country.
The opening featured a vibrant display of traditional arts, cultural performances, and a march past by athletes, showcasing India’s diverse heritage and the martial spirit of Gatka. During his address, Goel announced that the 3rd National Pythian Games next year will be even grander, and revealed plans for the first International Pythian Cultural Competition in Russia in 2026, marking a milestone for the sport on a global stage.
Speaking on the occasion, Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal said, “The Federation Gatka Cup demonstrates the strength and legacy of India’s Gatkabaz. It is inspiring to see Gatka recognized alongside other cultural and artistic pursuits at the Pythian Games.”
On the competition front, Haryana’s young athletes dominated both the Gatka Soti and Farrie Soti team events. In Gatka Soti, Haryana claimed first place, Punjab was second, while Chandigarh and Andhra Pradesh shared third. The Farrie Soti event saw Haryana take gold again, with Chandigarh second, and Punjab and Chhattisgarh jointly finishing third.
The inauguration drew several dignitaries, including Sukhchain Singh (International Sikh Martial Art Council vice-president), Aarthi Diwan (President, Gatka Association Karnataka), M Surendra Reddy (General Secretary, Gatka Association Andhra Pradesh), Jagdish Singh (Amritsar), and Gatka officials Jaspreet Singh, Jashanpreet Singh, Amritpal Singh, Harnam Singh, Harsimran Singh, Sharry Singh, Narinderpal Singh, and Aman Singh (Chhattisgarh). Coaches and representatives from different states were also present to support the athletes.
The 2nd Federation Gatka Cup not only highlighted national talent but also celebrated the rich martial and cultural heritage of India, setting the stage for greater international recognition through the upcoming Pythian Games in Russia.
