Sunday, September 30, 2007

Style of the Week VII: Gatka

Gatka is a martial art originated by and still closely associated with the Sikhs. In my part of the world, Sikhs are little known or understood and frequently mistaken for Arab. Even those who are familiar with Sikhism as a religion are unfamiliar with their history. It turns out that the Sikhs are also a true warrior culture, and a fairly badass one at that.

Gatka is a weapon-based martial art, to the extent that it doesn't seem to have any unarmed component. There are numerous weapons including swords, daggers, staff (the lathi), spears, and battles axe (tabar). However, the most fundamental aspect of the art seems to be the panthra, a footwork form. Some of the sword movements are reminiscent of the Chinese broadsword, but the style itself is very distinct and rhythmic. Here's a video displaying sword and shield techniques:


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