Despite the Chinese influences, Bando is credited as a style of armed and
unarmed combat native to Burma. It is an assimilation of Karate-like striking
and kicking techniques, Judo-like throwing techniques, swordplay and fighting
with knives, spears and sticks.
There are numerous interpretations of the term Bando, and different linguistic
and ethnic groups hold to diverse translations. It is generally interpreted
in three ways:
- "way of discipline"
- "systems of self-defense"
- "art of fighting or combat"
Some Bando groups have combined all three translations in one, making it
similar to the Japanese term Budo (stop conflict), the Chinese word Wu Shu (war
art), or the English terms military arts or martial arts. Some etymologists
believe the term Bando derives from Chinese, while others claim Indian or even
Tibetan origins. Bando is also called "Thaing."
There are many styles of Bando, but most follow basic instructional patterns.
The art emphasizes initial withdrawal followed by an attack outside the opponent's
reach. All parts of the body are employed in these attacks, and once the initial
technique is delivered, grappling and locking techniques are used. Techniques
are learned first through formal exercises in some systems and only later through
sparring.
When the Japanese invaded Burma in 1942, they encouraged the practice and
proliferation of Bando and influenced it by exchanging techniques from Judo,
Jujutsu, and Aikido. After World War II, Bando was furthered through a large
number of competitions.
Bando was introduced in the U.S. by Dr. Maung Gyi, a college professor who began
teaching the art on April 3, 1960, in Washington, D.C. Later, Bando classes
were formally conducted at American University until the fall of 1966. Dr. Gyi
organized the American Bando Association on June 15, 1968, at Ohio University.
Members present at this initiation ceremony took a blood oath.The International Bando Association was officially formed on March 9, 1946,
by U Ba Than, then director of physical education and athletics for the Union
of Burma. The IBA was organized in honor of those servicemen who fought and
died in the China-Burma-India theater of World War II.
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