Indo-persian axe... maybe?

[russel]

I would like some thoughts on this “indo-persian” axe which I have had for a while. What is it? Or (perhaps) what is it trying to be?
Length 27 inches; Weight 983g – surprisingly light in the hand, to the point that I had to confirm that it was ferrous (it could easily be mistaken as Aluminium). The axe-blade displays distinct distal taper and a few forge-creases. The shaft seems to have a weld line running it’s length. All welds seem pretty rough. Is it an amateur or tourist effort?
The overall design seems rather strange to me. It seems similar to a Fakir crutch, although an axe seems an unlikely weapon for a holy man! It also looks to be somewhat awkward, I can imagine the “crutch” being caught on all manner of things during the heat of battle.
As usual, all thoughts and comments gratefully received.