Artistes from Chandigarh at a procession to mark the Guru Nanak birth anniversary. Picture by Hardeep Singh

Ranchi, Nov. 3: They were “warriors”, who walked proud in their blue robes and took onlookers by surprise as they broke into impromptu war moves.

The second day of Prakash Utsav showcased the traditional Gatka or warrior fight in a procession that travelled across Albert Ekka Chowk, Ratu Road and Kishori Singh Yadav Chowk today. The procession celebrated the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

The trained artistes were especially flown in from Mohali, Punjab. The group’s leader was adorned in a white gown and was giving directions to his disciples on the art of self-defence. During the course of the procession, the warriors stopped in between and displayed their sword-playing skills to onlookers, reminding all of the days when warriors went for battle.

Devotees attired in their best followed a chariot that was especially designed for the festival, adorned with marigold, while Ragis rode on rendering devotional songs.

Religious Convener of Guru Nanak Higher Secondary School H.B. Singh, further explained that costumes for the particular art of Gatka is usually white, orange and blue. “This year we have added variety to the procession. A similar show will be held on November 5,” Singh said.

Sukhwinder Kaur hailing from Anandpur, Punjab, was left reminiscing about similar shows she witnessed in her childhood. “Even my children seem mesmerised by it,” Kaur added with a smile.