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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Bandesh is an ancient Indian martial art of empty-hand disarming against armed opponents derived from Vedic warrior manuals and Mallayuddha wrestling traditions. The 5-level cascade from Abhyasi student to Ustad master evaluates wrist-lock traps, neutralizations of Khanjar dagger & Talwar sword strikes, and close-quarters leverage.

1st Level – Abhyasi (Student)

Abhyasi BandeshRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic palm stances, finger joint locks in tight contact, & unarmed knife disarming.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ancient Indian art of unarmed disarming and immobilization without killing.

2nd Level – Yodha (Warrior)

Yodha BandeshRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Barehand sword disarming (Khanda/Talwar), takedowns, and moving joint locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Bandesh = "Locking/Binding". Utilizing leverage to instantly immobilize opponent.

3rd Level – Varma Yodha

Varma YodhaRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Precise finger strikes to 108 Marma vital points combined with joint locks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Merging combat disarming with Ayurvedic knowledge of the nervous system.

4th Level – Guru (Master Teacher)

Guru BandeshRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master rank Guru. Instructing in Akhara arena and student certification.

Symbolism & Meaning

Guru = Official teacher and guarantor of traditional Indian Bandesh disarming.

5th Level – Mahaguru (Grandmaster)

Mahaguru BandeshRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable title. Living legend and supreme Indian unarmed combat authority.

Symbolism & Meaning

Mahaguru = Supreme head and guardian of ancient Vedic Bandesh heritage.