The essentials
Dhanurveda, traditionally counted as an upaveda (subsidiary knowledge) linked with the Yajurveda, is the science of archery and warfare. Its teachings survive in sections of texts such as the Agni Purana, the Vishnudharmottara Purana and the Arthashastra, which discuss bows, arrows, stances, swords, training and the organisation of armies. Weapons were traditionally classified by how they were used — for example, those that are thrown, those held in the hand, and those released by machines.
The epics describe princes trained by teachers such as Drona in archery, mace-fighting, sword-fighting and wrestling. Arjuna is the model archer; Bhima and Duryodhana are masters of the mace (gada). Wrestling (mallayuddha) was both a sport and a form of combat.
In practice, martial arts were taught in training spaces (akharas, kalaris, vyayamshalas) under a guru. Training combined physical exercise, flexibility, breathing, diet, weapon use and knowledge of the body. Massage and healing using medicated oils were part of many traditions, and knowledge of marma points served both to attack and to heal injuries. Many forms also include ritual respect for the training ground, the teacher and the weapons.
Key points
- Dhanurveda: upaveda of archery and war.
- Sources: Agni Purana, Vishnudharmottara Purana, Arthashastra, epics.
- Akhara: wrestling arena; kalari: training space in Kerala.
- Training: exercise, diet, weapons, healing, discipline.
Exam tips
- Remember that Dhanurveda is linked with the Yajurveda.
Common mistakes
- Thinking martial arts were only about fighting; health, healing and discipline were central.