‘Spirit of Budo’: The history of Japanese martial arts goes on display

The exhibition, which runs till Nov 23, is coinciding with the Kurosawa Film Festival.

ISLAMABAD:

While Pakistan’s exposure to Japanese martial arts tends to be limited to Star World’s samurai movie re-runs, “Spirits of Budo” renders a clearer picture for people.

The exhibit, which opened at the National Arts Gallery at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Monday, features reproductions of bows and arrows, elaborate helmets, armoury and swords traditionally used in budo --- the Japanese word for martial arts.

The first day of the exhibit attracted a crowd of nearly 60 people, who could be seen leaning close to the glass to admire the intricate pieces. A viewing area was created for visitors to watch a video demonstration of different forms and moves of martial arts.

Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Oe, while addressing the guests, said the exhibition aims to educate people about “the aesthetic awareness and creativity of the Japanese people.”

Carefully taking in the inscriptions and delicate carving on a sword, Mrs Sajjad was awed by the grandeur of the exhibit. “The Japanese are such artists,” she commented. She said even though the exhibit focuses on armoury and weapons once used for warfare, the beauty of the objects is overpowering.

“You just want to put these hats on and take photographs,” she said with a laugh, pointing to a display of unique-looking helmets.

Martial arts, which remain an inherent part of Japanese culture as a healthy exercise of the mind and body, were used as a means of defence in the eighth century.

Students of Japanese department at National University of Modern Languages were thrilled to see the weaponry and art popularised only on television.

“This is an educational opportunity for us,” said Mian Tamseel, speaking for his group.

The exhibition, which runs till November 23, is coinciding with the Kurosawa Film Festival being held by the Japanese embassy at the PNCA.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 13^th, 2012.