On International Yoga Day, June 21, 2026, the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) [SAD (A)] boycotted official yoga sessions and instead organised a 'Gatka Day' event at Gurdwara Attari Sahib in Sultanwind, Amritsar. The event showcased traditional Sikh martial arts, drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Gatka Display and Cultural Promotion
Several teams performed impressive gatka demonstrations, captivating onlookers. Harmandeep Singh Sultanwind, the event organiser, addressed the gathering, emphasising that gatka is a vital part of the 'shastra vidya' (weapon science) introduced by Guru Hargobind. He urged every Sikh to learn this traditional martial art.
Sultanwind highlighted that gatka is deeply intertwined with Sikh history, culture, and the principles of 'Miri-Piri'—the concept of balancing temporal and spiritual authority. He stressed the need to promote gatka among the younger generation to connect them with their heritage and to build physical and mental strength.
Preserving Sikh Identity and Traditions
"Sikhs have their own distinct identity, customs, and traditions, and it is the duty of every Sikh to preserve them," Sultanwind said, according to the Tribune. The event aimed to reinforce Sikh heritage and encourage youth to embrace traditional practices over mainstream activities like yoga.
Other party leaders present included Majha organising secretary Amrik Singh Nangal and Tarlok Singh Bitta, among others. The boycott of International Yoga Day by SAD (A) underscores ongoing tensions between some Sikh groups and the Indian government's promotion of yoga, which they view as conflicting with Sikh religious practices.
Impact and Reactions
The event drew significant attention, with many community members supporting the emphasis on Sikh martial arts. Critics, however, viewed the boycott as divisive. The SAD (A) maintained that promoting gatka is essential for preserving Sikh martial traditions and identity in modern times.
