Indian Tegha

[Miguel]

Hi Everyone,
I have had this item for some time but have never really known what its real use. It certainly could be used as a weapon if the user was strong enough to wield it but I doubt that this was its use because of the decoration on the blade comprising of what appear to be Hindu Deities, script, foliage and a tableau on either side of the blade showing three raised figures in brass. The hilt is of cast copper and I wonder if this is the original or a replacement for a previous iron hilt. My inclination is to think that the item was for ceremonial or religious use. The overall length of the item is 36 ins with a bade length of 29 ins and width of 3.25 ins. Your comments would be appreciated, thank you.
Miguel