Program Policies & Participant Agreement

ANNUAL PROGRAM FEES

$150 (For the 2026 Season)

PARTICIPATION & SAFETY POLICY

Gatka is a traditional Sikh martial art involving physical movement and training equipment. Participation carries inherent risks. Minimum recommended participation age is 8 years. Children under 8 are not permitted in the training area. Students ages 8–11 may participate only with a parent or guardian present for the entire class.

STUDENT CONDUCT POLICY

Students must respect instructors, volunteers, and fellow students; follow safety instructions; use training equipment responsibly; and maintain discipline during instruction. No drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, will be allowed or near any training session or performance location. Unsafe or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated and will result in dismissal from the class, or dismissal from the program.

PARENT / GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITY

Parents are responsible for the conduct and behavior of their children during training. Parents agree to ensure their child follows Akhara rules, Gurdwara Sahib Maryada, and to cooperate with instructors in maintaining discipline and safety. A registration confirmation email will be sent containing details on Gurdwara Sahib Maryada during Gatka training sessions. 

DISCIPLINARY ACTION & DISMISSAL

The Akhara may suspend or dismiss participants for unsafe behavior, failure to follow safety instructions, disrespect toward instructors or students, bullying, or repeated disruption. Program fees are non‑refundable in cases of dismissal due to conduct violations.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION

In the event of injury or medical emergency, instructors or volunteers may arrange emergency care. The primary hospital for Plainview training sessions is Plainview Hospital, 888 Old Country Road, Plainview, NY.

MEDIA CONSENT

Participants grant permission for photographs or video recordings taken during training to be used for educational or promotional purposes.

Participation in Gatka and martial arts training involves inherent and significant risks, including but not limited to: physical contact, use of training weapons (including wooden sticks and related equipment), falls, collisions, and strenuous physical activity, which may result in serious injury, permanent disability, or death.

1. Assumption of Risk

I, the undersigned participant (and/or parent/legal guardian of a minor participant), fully understand and acknowledge these risks and voluntarily agree to allow participation in all activities conducted by Kalgidhar Gatka Akhara.

I knowingly and voluntarily assume all risks, both known and unknown, even if arising from negligence, associated with participation.

2. Release and Waiver of Liability (Adults)

For participants age 18 or older: To the fullest extent permitted under the laws of the State of New York, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and agree to hold harmless and indemnify: Kalgidhar Gatka Akhara, its instructors, trainers, volunteers, and sevadars, affiliated organizations, the host Gurdwara and its committees, management, and representatives from any and all claims, demands, damages, losses, or liabilities arising out of or related to participation, including those caused by negligence, to the maximum extent permitted by law.

3. Minor Participant Acknowledgment & Parental Consent (Under 18)

For participants under the age of 18: I, the parent/legal guardian of the minor participant, consent to my child’s participation in Gatka training and acknowledge the inherent risks described above.

I understand that under New York law, a parent/guardian may not waive certain legal rights on behalf of a minor, including a minor’s right to bring a personal injury claim.

However, to the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to:

Assume all risks on behalf of the minor participant, indemnify and hold harmless Kalgidhar Gatka Akhara and all associated parties listed above from any claims brought by or on behalf of the minor arising out of participation and accept full responsibility for the minor’s conduct, behavior, and compliance with all rules and instructions.

4. Participant Responsibilities

The participant (and parent/guardian) agrees: To follow all safety rules, instructions, and Gurdwara maryada at all times That failure to comply may result in increased risk and removal from the program That the participant is physically able to participate and has disclosed any relevant medical conditions.

5. Medical Authorization

In the event of injury or medical emergency, I authorize Kalgidhar Gatka Akhara staff and volunteers to seek emergency medical treatment for the participant. I understand and agree that I am financially responsible for any medical care provided.

6. General Provisions

This agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted under New York law. If any provision is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York.