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Friday, December 10, 2021
Whether it is our humble traditions or our renowned bravery in battles and wars, Khukuri has become an integral part of the Nepalese legacy. Khukuri is a type of knife, typically with 12-15 inch long blades, originating from Nepal. It is associated with the Gurkhas of Nepal and is regarded as a national emblem that has earned respect from all over the world.
The name ‘Gurkha’ comes from the hill town of Gorkha in central Nepal, from which the Nepalese kingdom expanded. Gorkha Global remains the only race in the world to serve other nations. It is a huge honour to be a Gurkha in the British Army and even today, every Gurkha warrior proudly wears a Khukuri attached to their belt as a mark of bravery, courage and dignity. The Khukuri also sees service with the Royal Gurkha Rifles of the British Army—a unique regiment that is quite different from the rest of the British Army as it is the only regiment that recruits its soldiers strictly from Nepal; a relationship that has its roots in the times of British colonial rule in India. Like the British, a large part of the Gurkhas are in the armies of India and Singapore too, to name a few. This makes the Gurkha army the only army serving other nations around the world.
The knife has a distinct recurve in its blade which is a mark of exemplary efficiency, elegant beauty and the unique heritage of our local craftsmanship. In its curves and indents, lies its beauty and power.
The Khukuri is as relevant and integral to our community as it was centuries ago. Not only is it a fearful weapon but also an honorable element of our culture. It is a versatile tool in the daily lives of the people in Nepal. Its use has varied from building, clearing, chopping firewood, digging, slaughtering animals for food, cutting meat and vegetables, skinning animals, and opening cans. Its use as a general farm and household tool disproves the often stated taboo that “the weapon cannot be sheathed until it has drawn blood.”
And so we take pride in our national identity.
