In 1936 K.S. Akali, the Physical Director of his college, published a book on the then little known Martial Art from India known as Gatka.
Boasting 19 photographs and illustrations, K.S. Akali's book offers over 60 pages of instruction on footwork, handling, and use of "the Gatka." This instruction, considered training for the sword, offers a unique perspective into not only the Martial Arts of India, but also the efforts to include "scientific" physical education of the time. The emphasis of K.S. Akali's book is on the sporting aspect of the Art which is similar to Japanese Kendo or English Singlestick. He ends his book with rules for the competition with specific instructions for both the competitors and the judges.
Faithfully reproduced by Kirk Lawson, this book is an invaluable resource that both historic researchers and modern Martial Artists alike will find beneficial.
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By Alina
Oct 15, 2009
"An incredible resource" Gatka is an Indian martial art dating back hundreds of years. These days, it is mostly practiced in Sikh communities around the world, but it is still, even now, relatively unknown to westerners. This is, as far as I know, the only manual available that teaches the basics of gatka. Moreover, it's free! This is an incredible resource, and Kirk Lawson has my deepest thanks for providing this wonderful document for everyone's benefit.
