Learn the Full Pentra and how to wield a daang, (a long stick) using various moves and strikes.
Sikhseverywhere presents a series on Gatka-the Sikh spiritual-martial art. Learn the fine points of Gatka from the basic first pentra to advanced fighting techniques.
Gatka is not a mere sport or fighting technique. It is a unique and special part of Sikhi and every Sikh is encouraged to learn to play gatka and to make it an integral part of their lifestyle. Gatka is a merger of baanee (meditation on Guru's words) and banaa (the Khalsa aura and form).
This series explores the following elements of Gatka:
1) Ardaas: Gatka begins with an entreaty for blessings so the gatka player never misuses his/her knowledge/training. The gatka player's mind must remain in 'simran'-even during the fight.
2) Beginning with 'Plus Pentra,' each pentra (movement) allows synchronization of the body and weapon for optimum defensive and offensive strikes.
3) A special pentra is used to 'greet' the weapons with respect.
4) Learn the 'salaami', the salutation given with the weapon.
5) The seven elemental strikes done while moving in 'pentra' with each type of weapon.
6) The movement to rapidly retreat from a position while wielding a weapon to create both defensive and offensive strikes.
7) The movement to advance rapidly back and forth to create both defensive and offensive strikes with a weapon.
8) Special 'jumps' to move rapidly back and forth while striking with a weapon.
9) The final 'free-flowing' movements and strikes to create havoc while covering a large space, as if fighting a group of attackers.
Each lesson begins with a warm up.