Rupnagar, April 19: The 12th Punjab State Gatka Championship – 2026 ended with Rupnagar district finishing at the top of the leaderboard, followed by Gurdaspur and Fatehgarh Sahib. The annual competition featured skilled practitioners from across the state, showcasing the traditional martial art in several age-based categories.
Rupnagar MLA Dinesh Chadha affirmed his commitment to the sport during the final day of the event. He stated that the local administration would seek improved resources for Gatka athletes to ensure the traditional art continues to flourish. Chadha noted that the district’s historical connection to the Khalsa legacy makes it a natural hub for such cultural and sporting milestones.
The World Gatka Federation is committed to achieving the long-term goal of securing Gatka’s inclusion in the Olympic Games, stated Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal. The National Gatka Association President affirmed that the successful organization of the state-level tournament reflects the rising popularity of the sport. He maintained that the participation of diverse teams is a testament to the dedication of local associations.
The event featured several standout performers, including senior champion Amanpreet Singh and junior standout Dilraj Singh. Officials noted that the high level of competition this year underscores the effectiveness of current training programs. Prominent figures such as Baljit Singh Saini and Harpreet Singh Lakhewal were also in attendance to support the athletes and witness the final rounds.
