Previous

Next

Ask a Question

Summary of Question:	Bana and Gatka
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Tuesday, 7/11/2000 4:00 AM MDT

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ke Fateh

I would like to ask two questions.
i.) What is Gatka? Does it only teach sword fighting only or does it teach using body(Hands and legs) to defend your self in times of need.

ii.)Did Guru Ji said that all amritdhari have to wear Banas. Earlier on in this web page i read that we have to. Then how can i explain this to the people in my country and so we can wear it anywhere(e.g. School) as nobody(hardly) anyone wears the bana.

I would be very greatful.
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ke Fateh

*******************
Reply
******************
As far as I know Gatka in only sword fighting. However, stick or staff fighting uses the same techniques so it is useful in many situations. If you carry a walking cane, it makes an effective weapon with Gatka training. You might want to take Karate or some similar martial art to learn how to fight effectively with no weapons. You don't have to become a master. Just knowing some basic moves increases your confidence tremendously.

As for Bhana, ideally it should be worn by Amritdharis. If you are strong enough, then you will stand out just as Guru Gobind Singh wanted. We were never supposed to be like everyone else. We are supposed to stand for something.
lsk