The Bahua is a typical battle axe of the Ho Tribe, an indigenous ethnic community inhabiting the eastern part of India, particularly in the Jharkhand region. This unique weapon is representative of the martial heritage and craftsmanship of the Ho, who have historically used such tools alike for combat and ceremonials. The Bahua is characterized by an iron blade shaped like wings, with a sharp cutting edge, curved and designed for slashing. The blade is fitted into a socket and mounted onto a long bamboo handle-in fact, the most appropriate material due to its strength and flexibility. Below this socket, a decorated iron sheet serves as a wedge to hold the blade in place and add ornamentation.
Another very interesting aspect of this Bahua is the fact that three iron bands wrap the upper part of the bamboo handle. The bands hold an iron stick which serves as an additional wedge and increases the strength of the structure to prevent the bamboo handle from splitting. There is also an iron band at the top of this handle with the bunched fruit at the top, which acts as a pointer not only to balance the weapon but also provides it with an emblem of status and tradition. Not just for fighting, the weapon, Bahua, is important beyond this: it assumes cultural and symbolic meanings among the Ho people and is mostly used for traditional dances, festivals, and public gatherings. It signifies strength, protection, and valor of ancestors.