techniquesof
sanatanhindusikh
shastarvidiya

Before progressing any further, it has to be stated that there are NO personal issues with any individual practicing Gatka today - or for that matter any other martial art - exhibitionist or otherwise.

In fact, a great sense of tragedy is felt for those practitioners who have not known of the true 'Chatka' combat arts of the Hindu Sikh world, and have been under the misconception that their art is the true form. For example, many 'Jahir Gatka' practitioners of today, whether in India, or in the Sikh Diaspora do not train for sake of preserving the traditional "Khalsa Sikh Martial Heritage". Modern 'Gatkabaj' practice Gatka for the following (known) reasons:

a) To gain public applause at recognition/status during times of Sikh religious events/processions by carrying out exhibition Gatka
b) For financial gain
c) Employing Gatka as a means of converting/brainwashing impressionable non-Khalsa Sikhs to a particular blend of Sikhism - this is especially true for those inclined to a more fanatical outlook
d) As a sport within schools, colleges, universities, and gatherings
e) As a display art
f) As pure entertainment
g) To gain public accolade as Gatka Ustad - to feed one's already inflated ego

None of the above are considered legitimate reasons for practicing traditional fighting arts (regardless of origin).

For the aid of martially ignorant people, throughout www.shastarvidiya.org, a critical eye is cast over this ritualized form of Gatka from the perspective of 'Chatka'.

This has been done to explain why 'Jahir Gatka' and 'Khell Gatka' cannot be considered the fighting art of the Sikh Gurus as many of its practitioners claim. True experienced martial artists the world over will evidently observe the combative deficiencies of Jahir Gatka without any assistance. For more information, please visit the section on 'Gatka'. Traditionally, the Akali Nihang Singhs only taught the higher 'Chatka Vidiya' (knowedge if the lethal killing arts) to other Akali Nihangs or Sikhs who respected the martial Akali Nihang traditions.

But, 'Savya Raksha' (self defense) techniques they taught to anyone who required them. Please see 'The Akhara' for more details on learning 'Savya Raksha'.