In a momentous celebration of Sikh heritage and physical endurance, a five-member team from Punjab etched their name into history by performing Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, at the Mount Everest Base Camp, situated at a staggering altitude of 5,364 meters.
Led by Prabhsharan Singh of Patiala, Punjab, the team represented the Shaheed Baba Deep Singh Ji Gatka Academy (Missal Shaheedan), Gurudwara Toor Nagar, Tohana. They reached the base camp at 12:25 pm on March 12, 2023, and conducted a vibrant and disciplined demonstration of Gatka, showcasing techniques rooted in centuries-old martial tradition.
The record-breaking event was officially confirmed on April 3, 2023, marking the highest known altitude at which Sikh martial art has ever been performed by a team.
“This performance was not just about setting a record—it was about honoring the valor of our ancestors and taking our martial heritage to new literal and symbolic heights,” said Singh.
Gatka, once practiced by Sikh warriors in battle, is now a ceremonial and competitive martial art symbolizing discipline, defense, and spirituality. The Everest performance fused cultural preservation with extreme adventure, creating a powerful image of faith and fortitude.
The team’s achievement reflects not only physical stamina and coordination at high altitudes but also the deep-rooted pride in cultural identity. Their extraordinary feat stands as an inspiration for martial artists and spiritual seekers across the globe.
