The lathi, or stick, is one of the oldest and most accessible weapons used in India across regions and social groups. Its popularity stems from several practical, cultural, and strategic factors.
Reasons for popularity:
Affordability and Availability: Bamboo and hardwood sticks are inexpensive and easily available in most parts of India. This made them ideal for both self-defense and formal training across all economic classes.
Versatility and Safety: A lathi can be used for both attack and defense. Its non-lethal nature also made it suitable for training and police use. Techniques included thrusts, blocks, spins, and footwork patterns.
Cultural Integration: Traditional martial arts like \textit{Silambam} (Tamil Nadu), \textit{Lathi Khela} (Bengal), and \textit{Thang-ta} (Manipur) all incorporate stick-fighting techniques. It is deeply rooted in local customs and even rural sports.
Ease of Training: Compared to swords or complex weapons, lathi requires less infrastructure and can be practiced in open fields, making it ideal for village communities and local youth.
Utility in Policing and Public Order: Even today, police forces across India are equipped with lathis for crowd control due to their deterrent power and symbolic authority.
The lathi represents the combination of accessibility, effectiveness, and cultural continuity. It is not just a weapon but a symbol of self-discipline, tradition, and grassroots martial heritage.
