Need help with a tulwar

[TVV]

I was attracted to this tulwar because of its narrow and very curved blade and I was able to get for a fairly low price.
I believe the blade is wootz. I am currently trying to bring out the pattern and going very slowly and carefully, using only diluted vinegar. My first questions is, should I try to polish the blade with very fine sandpaper, such as 1500+?
Also, I believe this tulwar has lost its original pommel, which has been rplaced by a rather heavy piece of steel. It looks out of place and ruins the balance of the sword, so I assume it must be a recent repair. I am therefore thinking of replacing the hilt. From what I have read, disattaching the hilt is possible by heating it. However, would the heating damage the wootz pattern in the base of the blade? Also, what can I use for reattaching the hilt? Could the old resins be reused, or should I try with epoxy?
Finally, I would be happy to get some comments on the tulwar itself, and perhaps place it to a certain area in India based on the hilt and the style of the blade.

Thank you all for your interest and replies,

Teodor