Strange Sword with Khanda/Pattisa Blade- comments

Jim McDougall · 7th December 2007, 11:29 PM

The early 'khandas' in India depicted in the iconography indeed were simple hilts without guards typically. The hilt with developed knuckleguard evolved primarily with the influence of European swords, and began the advent of the familiar khanda form often termed 'Hindu basket hilt'. This is certainly not to see that the knuckleguard was not known in India prior to the European influence, but that its presence was quite limited in the regions where the khanda predominated.

Very good point however, the khanda of India did indeed have a spectrum of variation not only as it evolved, but as other influences and diffusion reflected in the variations. This example 'antennae' sword as suggested does appear to be a quite modern interpretation of these ancient iron age swords, and not associated with sword forms known in India. However, I do think it is interesting that the Indian dagger known as the 'chilanum' does seem to carry this 'anthromorphic' theme in degree. I have always considered the weaponry of India reflective in that it seems to carry weapon influences from subtle to considerable in degree, of not only other cultures, but ancient forms as well.

Nicely observed David!

All best regards,
Jim

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7th December 2007, 11:29 PM	#9
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,200	The early 'khandas' in India depicted in the iconography indeed were simple hilts without guards typically. The hilt with developed knuckleguard evolved primarily with the influence of European swords, and began the advent of the familiar khanda form often termed 'Hindu basket hilt'. This is certainly not to see that the knuckleguard was not known in India prior to the European influence, but that its presence was quite limited in the regions where the khanda predominated. Very good point however, the khanda of India did indeed have a spectrum of variation not only as it evolved, but as other influences and diffusion reflected in the variations. This example 'antennae' sword as suggested does appear to be a quite modern interpretation of these ancient iron age swords, and not associated with sword forms known in India. However, I do think it is interesting that the Indian dagger known as the 'chilanum' does seem to carry this 'anthromorphic' theme in degree. I have always considered the weaponry of India reflective in that it seems to carry weapon influences from subtle to considerable in degree, of not only other cultures, but ancient forms as well. Nicely observed David! All best regards, Jim