YOUNG people from Redbridge are being invited to try their hand at martial arts during a Sikh Youth Day.

Sikh boys and girls will be a given a demonstration of martial arts using weapons such as swords and can have a go themselves in Forest Gate on Monday (May 5).

There will also be a presentation and debate about Sikh Martial Arts and The Youth during the event being held in the Ramgarhia Community Centre, 270 Neville Road from 2pm to 6.30pm.

The day of activities also features a Cultural Programme and the launch of the Sikh Women's Conference Report and has been organised by The Sikh Study Forum in partnership with Sher-E-Punjab and Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa (GGSK) College in Chigwell.

Explaining the highlights, convenor Baldev Singh Sabar said: "Sikh martial arts is all about us as human beings being able to improve the strength and control of mind and body.

"It prepares your body for the battle of life and keeps you on the path of righteousness. It is used to protect your community wherever there might be oppression.

"Martial arts is a means to prepare you for the final fight if you have to if you find yourself in a situation where others are not listening to you or engaging in dialogue. It's to defend yourself, your community and other human beings."

Mr Sabar said that youngsters can learn Sikh martial arts from the ages of five to 18, being instructed and supervised by their elders to use weapons such as swords and spears.

Also featured at the open day will be an exhibition of Sikh Heritage including information about Sikh generals and other artefacts from history.

In the cultural programme, visitors will be shown music, dance and drama by a host of organisations including Bhangra by Virsa Punjab, Gidha by GGSK College in Chigwell and Jeeven Arts.

However, Mr Sabar stressed: "The main purpose of the Sikh Youth day is to encourage our youth to have an open discussion about the Sikh Martial Arts and other relevant issues concerning Sikh youth.

For more information ring Mr Sabar on 8257 8676 or secretary Malkeet Singh on 07754 552 296.

April 28, 2003 14:00