katthi

Katthi is a term used in several Indian languages to denote a knife or large blade. The exact form and use of a katthi vary by region and language, but it generally refers to a single-edged tool or weapon with a broad blade, often designed for chopping or cutting tasks. The name also appears in various spellings such as kathi or katthi in everyday speech.

Blade shapes and construction differ regionally. Katthi blades are typically forged from steel and may be straight or have a pronounced curve. Lengths can range from a short utility blade to longer blades used for cutting timber or meat. Handles are commonly made of wood, horn, bone, or metal, and some examples feature a full tang for added strength. The edge is usually sharpened on one side, with the opposite side relying on thickness and geometry for strength.

Uses and cultural context vary. In rural and urban India, a katthi commonly serves as a multi-purpose utility knife for farming, cooking, woodwork, and general chores. In some traditions, larger blades are associated with ceremonial or historical displays, and the katthi appears in folklore and regional craft rather than as a standardized weapon. The term itself is broadly linguistic, reflecting the wide usage of knives in everyday life across the region.

See also: Knife, Kukri, Katar, Kathur.