---
title: Khanda
author: Detroit Institute of Art
source: https://www.worldhistory.org/image/13511/khanda/
format: machine-readable-alternate
updated: 1970-01-01
---
# Khanda
_Authored by Detroit Institute of Art_
## Image File
[](https://www.worldhistory.org/uploads/images/13511.jpg)
## Image Caption
The khanda is a type of double-edged straight sword originating in the [Gupta Empire](https://www.worldhistory.org/Gupta_Empire/) c. 320-550 CE. The khanda is used in many forms of Indian martial arts, and its symbolism carries religious and cultural significance. This example has the khanda's characteristic blunt tip and strengthening plate along one edge. Iron blade, with [gold](https://www.worldhistory.org/gold/) and textile decorations on the hilt, and gilded designs along the blade. Made in [India](https://www.worldhistory.org/india/), c. 18th Century CE. 98.1 x 8.3 cm (38.6 x 3.2 in). Image courtesy of the Detroit Institute of Art.
## Cite This Work
### APA
Art, D. I. o. (2021, March 01). Khanda. *World History Encyclopedia*.
### Chicago
Art, Detroit Institute of. "Khanda." *World History Encyclopedia*, March 01, 2021. .
### MLA
Art, Detroit Institute of. "Khanda." *World History Encyclopedia*, 01 Mar 2021, .
## License & Copyright
[Original image](https://www.dia.org/art/collection/object/khanda-sword-48764) by **Detroit Institute of Art**. Submitted by [Arienne King](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/ava.spartan.117/ "User Page: Arienne King"), published on 01 March 2021. The copyright holder has published this content under the following license: [Public Domain](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_domain). This item is in the public domain, and can be used, copied, and modified without any restrictions. Please note that content linked from this page may have different licensing terms.