Mercenary, thank you so very much for such valuable input! I know from years of reading your posts you are incredibly well versed in these arms and the complex cultures they are from.
As I have noted, this unusual pata is among the number of swords I have acquired through lifetime, and now part of sort of 'bucket list' to try to close their cases and finally determine what they are exactly.
As you note this is an unusual item used in traditional martial arts, but in more of a ceremonial sense I believe, as it is not substantial enough to serve as an actual weapon. I am so glad you pointed out the image of Garuda, which I honestly would not have recognized even if I had noticed it. As I am totally uninitiated in the incredibly complex theology of these Indian religions, I am grateful for your adding this.
If I understand correctly, this pata may be associated with the cult of Garuda in Hoysala, so then the martial demonstrations or ceremonies might have used weapons such as this?
The celebration of warriors is well represented in the areas of Hoysala as seen in temples and warrior stones seen through its regions. Perhaps then this very old blade possibly might be a venerated old blade that has been remounted for use with this recognition?
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