chatkain
sanatanhindusikh
shastarvidiya

Many fanatic, (and largely vegetarian) Sikhs have in the past sought to ban the word 'Chatka'.

Early last century, they claimed it was a term invented by meat-eating Sikhs seeking to "dilute and destroy the pure Khalsa way of life". Indeed this same concept has been promoted amongst modern pro-vegetarian/vegan Sikhs today such as the Akhand Kirtani Jatha, Samparda Bhindra, Nanaksar, etc. (check out www.sarbloh.info for more information on these and other Sikhs).

The word 'Chatka' is not found in 'Adi Guru Durbar', nor in the works of Bhai Gurdas. However, Bhai Gurdas himself writes:

'An elephant's flesh is not edible for he is full of pride,
The lion is also full of pride of its strength so no one eats it either,
Humble is the goat it gains honor in the here after and this world,
In all celebrations is it [the meat], acknowledged,
It [the meat], sanctifies religious gatherings and feasts,
Its meat is 'Pavitar' [good/sacred] for the householder,
From its entrails [tendons] is string for instruments made that when they play, attracts holy men in meditation
From it's skin are shoes made, which holy feet wear as they go to seek holy protection [to Guru].
With its skin are bound drums with which 'Kirtan' [religious songs], are sung,
Hence, they [goat-skin bound drums] give great comfort.
The holy gathering is coming into the Guru's protection.'
(Bhai Gurdas Ji's Varan, Bhai Gurdas, 'Vaar 23, Pauri 16')