Sword fight in Punjab, Sikh Gatka style

Nihang warriors showcase their Gatka skills at Kila Raipur sports festival in Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Gatka is the name of an Indian martial art associated with the Sikhs of the Punjab region. It is a style of stick fighting,with wooden sticks intended to simulate swords. The Punjabi name gatka properly refers to the wooden stick used. The word originates as a diminutive of Sanskrit gada,gatka is defensive as well as offensive. The style originated in later 19th century,out of sword practice in in two sub-style,called rasmi (ritualistic) and khel (sport) from the 1880s. The term gatka has sometimes come to be extended to,including the use of various weapons,more properly called Shastar Vidiya. Holla Mohalla,or Hola Mohalla,is the festival of Punjab. Celebrated over three days,the festival retains the character of fun and enjoyment that Holi has embodied. In addition to this,it is also a community festival that brings people together in an atmosphere of sharing and caring. It is also an occasion to re