Shastar Vidya

Template:Infobox martial art

Sanatan Shastar Vidya (Punjabi: ਸ਼ਸਤ੍ਰ ਵਿਦਿਆ, Hindi: शस्तर विद्या) is a centuries-old Sanatan battlefield art which translates to "the science of weapons".

History

The battle art has existed in the subcontinent for thousands of years and been preserved by people from many different cultures and religions. Since the mid-16th century, the Sikh tribes of the Punjab became the chief custodians and masters of this fighting system. In North India it is believed that this art is the father of all martial arts.

After the Anglo-Sikh wars the art was banned by the new British administrators of India in the mid-19th century.

Features

The basis of Shastar Vidiya is a five-step movement which includes advancing on the opponent; hitting his flank, deflection of incoming blows, taking a commanding position and striking. As a full combat martial art it also includes both unarmed and armed combat techniques using swords, clubs, sticks, spears, daggers and other weapons.

Principle of power

Shastar Vidya is a subtle art and does not rely on fitness, flexibility or strength like western fighting systems. Instead, it uses tactical positioning and body mechanics.

External links

• Shastar Vidya