The Indian Katar or punch dagger is one of the most Iconic weapons used by warriors of many dynasties throughout India. From the Mughals to the Rajputs the Katar was symbol of status as well as functional battlefield weapon that is still highly valued today. Unfortunately very few texts survive that detail any techniques involving them, only pictorial evidence and living traditions still practiced in India. For this class students will first learn about the history of the weapon, then view Mughal Era paintings and observe the living traditions to theorize and practice their ideas. Finally through drills or light sparring students will test how their ideas work in a combative setting.
