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Japanese art of archery comes to Delhi

Bindu Shajan Perappadan

The Kyudo path is one of self-discovery, self-realisation

KYUDO: The way of the bow

New Delhi: To give Delhiites an opportunity to "discover" what is often described as the purest of all martial art forms, the Japan Foundation supported by the Japanese Embassy in New Delhi would be bringing to the city Kyudo -- the Japanese art of archery. The programme will be held at the Japanese School in Vasant Kunj on October 25.

Kyudo, which literally means the "Way of the Bow'', is the Japanese art of archery and the equipment used is exceptionally tall, standing over two metres, surpassing the height of the archer and traditionally made of bamboo, wood and leather.

Today at any given kyudojo (practice hall) one can find people practising Kyudo.

The key to understand Kyudo is to keep an open mind and realise that any style of Kyudo you see or practise is but a smaller part of a greater whole and that each style has its own history and philosophy which makes them all equally interesting and important. Ultimately the Kyudo path is one of self-discovery and self-realisation.

In the past the Japanese bow was used for hunting, war, court ceremonies, games and contest of skills. Some of the ancient schools known as "ryu" survive today with ancient ceremonies and games.

Speaking about Kyudo, an organiser explains: "The essence of modern Kyudo lies in the realisation of truth, goodness and beauty. Therefore it is practised as an art for physical, moral and spiritual development. Kyudo also acknowledges the fact that beauty can be found in the exquisite grace and artistry of the Japanese bow and the elegance of the traditional archer's attire. It is also present in the redefined etiquette that surrounds the Kyudo ceremony. Etiquette, which is simply common courtesy and respect for others, is an essential element of Kyudo.''

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