Kathmandu, Oct 23: Traditional archery has historical roots in China, where the bow and arrow have been significant for over 20,000 years, used for hunting, sports, rituals, examinations, and warfare. Mastery of archery was historically regarded as an essential skill for Chinese emperors, and it has been recognized as one of the six noble arts of the Chinese Zhou Dynasty. Notable philosophers like Confucius and Lie Zi are also mentioned in Chinese history as skilled archers.
In ancient times, bows and arrows were primarily used in warfare, gradually evolving into a form of military training and sport. Historical accounts indicate that special bows were designed for practical examinations in military assessments.
Over time, the design of bows changed, leading to the development of pellet bows for hunting, allowing for lighter bows that could shoot stone pellets. One theory suggests that the pellet bow predated the conventional bow and arrow, coexisting in hunting practices for centuries. The significance of traditional Chinese archery was recognized with the establishment of the annual Chinese Traditional Archery Symposium in 2009, aimed at reviving this ancient practice.
In the 20th century, traditional archery faced decline, but the 21st century has seen a resurgence in China. The Yunnan University Sports Institute offers courses in traditional archery, Wushu, and wrestling, fostering a new generation of practitioners.
Recently, representatives from the Nepal Wushu Federation, the Martial Arts Organization of Nepal, and the National Sports Council engaged with Yunnan University officials, who expressed their commitment to support Nepal in traditional archery, Wushu, and wrestling.
During this meeting, officials from Yunnan University shared insights into the history and future of traditional archery. They highlighted a desire to connect with Nepal through this sport.
A memorandum of understanding was signed between the two parties to promote the development of traditional archery, Wushu, and wrestling in Nepal. Signed by Abhishek Bikram Shah, Vice President of the Wushu Federation, and Kong Weizhong, President of the Traditional Archery Association Yunnan branch, the agreement includes provisions for trainer exchanges, training opportunities for Nepali athletes, annual joint events, support for new athlete development, cultural exchange, and community awareness initiatives.
This partnership is expected to enhance cultural tourism alongside sports, as noted by Vice President Shah. He emphasized the importance of teaching archery and Wushu at the school level to improve Nepal’s performance in regional competitions.
Representatives from the Traditional Archery Association, including Kong, Wang Zhongpin, and Wang Fan, acknowledged Nepal as a good neighbor and expressed that bilateral cooperation would strengthen grassroots relationships further. #archery #nepal #china
