One of my clients recently had a case which I am explaining below and if you are stuck in such similar situation, here is what to do.
Note: Due to attorney-client privilege, I cannot disclose complete case details or identify the actual parties involved. However, I am sharing the essential facts and legal approach so that if you find yourself in a similar situation, you can understand the available solutions and legal remedies.
TL;DR: An unsharpened katana can sometimes be imported into India, but it is not treated as an ordinary online purchase. Bladed weapons sit in the restricted category under India's foreign trade rules, and the customs officer at the port decides whether your particular piece counts as an "arm" or as a display article. Budget for a licence question, a duty demand, and the real possibility that the consignment is detained until the paperwork is sorted.
Rohan Nair trains in iaido twice a week at a hall in Kochi