Aruval
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (February 2024) |
| Aruval | |
|---|---|
Tamil Nadu, India | |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 3 to 6 feet (0.91 to 1.83 m) |
The aruval (
Introduction
An aruval usually measures 3–6 ft (0.91–1.83 m) in length (hand sickle measures 1.5 ft (0.46 m)). The blade of this weapon originates at the grip and extends to the main part of the blade. It can be described as a sickle with an extension. It can also be thought of as a sword with a reverse curve. The shorter versions were handy for breaking apart coconuts, and the longer versions were more like battle weapons. The shorter version is usually seen in small villages. Blades are mostly straight with a curve towards the end, allowing it to function as a grabbing tool. The straight portion of the blade is also used for cutting, like a standard knife.
Variants and usage
While farmers typically employ the standard billhook machete kathir aruvāl
The aruval is often used for worshipping Hindu deities, such as
-
Veecharuval -
Kathir aruval
In culture
The aruval is a common fixture in many south Indian movies, in which it is often used as a weapon.[1] The hero or villain often has the aruval in a sleeve sewn into the inside back of his shirt, and will pull it out by reaching behind his neck.[citation needed] The film historian S. Theodore Baskaran has stated that using aruval as a weapon is largely a narrative cliche, and non-fictional murders using it occur relatively rarely.[1] Nevertheless, the government prohibits aruvals over 2 feet (0.61 m) for general purchase, as well as the veecharuvāl.[1]
[3]In Maharashtra particularly Pune Koita ganges are famous
An aruval was among the weapons used by the title character of Kraven the Hunter.
See also
- Aiyanar
- Billhook
- Karuppu Sami
- Machete
- Madurai Veeran
- Village deities of South India
- Kraven the Hunter
References
- ^ a b c d e "Did Tamil films give the aruval a bad name?". Mintlounge. 12 October 2021. Retrieved 3 February 2024.
- ^ a b Thirunavukarasu, S (16 July 2016). "Sivagangai: 18-foot aruval to adorn hand of village deity". Deccan Chronicle. Retrieved 3 February 2024.
- ^ a b c "27-ft aruval to be unveiled today at Thirupuvanam". The Times of India. 24 February 2017. Retrieved 3 February 2024.