Chairman Anil Kumar inaugurates Gatka event ; lauds athletes for preserving India’s martial heritage
Bengaluru, November 8, 2025 (Navroze Bureau) – The second day of the 2nd National Cultural Pythian Games–2025 at Bengaluru City University came alive with fierce energy and vibrant spirit as the Gatka-Soti event, one of the key attractions of the Pythian Games, witnessed a thrilling semifinal encounter where Uttarakhand boys outplayed Haryana to storm into the finals. Their performance combined sharp reflexes, disciplined movements and remarkable command over technique, drawing applause from the audience and dignitaries alike.
The Gatka segment of the Pythian Games was formally inaugurated by Sh. B.H. Anil Kumar, IAS, Chairman of the Organising Committee, who commended the participating athletes for their spirited display of India’s traditional martial art. “Gatka reflects not only physical strength but also discipline, respect and the timeless values of India’s heritage. These young athletes are carrying forward a tradition that continues to define our cultural identity,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI) along with Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, Aarthi Diwan, and Jaspreet Singh, who applauded the growing enthusiasm for Gatka among youth across India.
Expressing appreciation Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal commended Anil Kumar for his dedicated efforts in organising the Pythian Games in Bengaluru. Sukhchain Singh Kalsani added that “Anil Kumar’s support has played a crucial role in bringing Gatka to the forefront of India’s cultural sports movement.”
The ongoing competition, featuring under-19 boys and girls from ten states, is being held by the NGAI as a part of the cultural and competitive celebrations of the Pythian movement.