Rupnagar crowned overall champion at 12th Punjab State Gatka Championship
Babushahi Bureau
Rupnagar (Punjab), April 19, 2026: Rupnagar emerged as the overall champion at the 12th Punjab State Gatka Championship 2026, delivering a strong performance across multiple categories. The tournament concluded at village Laudimajra, where Gurdaspur secured the runner-up position, while Fatehgarh Sahib finished third.
Several players were honoured for their outstanding performances during the championship. In the sub-junior category, Baljot Singh of Rupnagar was named Best Gatkabaaz. Dilraj Singh of Amritsar received the Best Player award in the junior category, while Amanpreet Singh of Fatehgarh Sahib was adjudged the top performer in the senior category.
Addressing the closing ceremony, MLA Dinesh Chadha praised the organisers for successfully hosting the championship and promoting Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art. He highlighted Rupnagar’s historical connection with the Khalsa legacy and emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting the sport. Chadha also assured that he would raise the issue of better facilities for players with the state authorities.
President of the National Gatka Association of India, Harjeet Singh Grewal, thanked participants, referees, and coaches for their contribution. He said that collective efforts are helping Gatka grow steadily and added that the World Gatka Federation is working towards the long-term goal of including the sport in the Olympic Games.
The closing ceremony was attended by several religious and political figures, along with officials and members of the Gatka community.