Kukri: The iconic blade of Gorkha valor and Nepali heritage

The kukri or khukuri is a type of machete originating from the Indian subcontinent, and is traditionally associated with the Nepali-speaking Gurkhas of Nepal and India. The knife has a distinct recurve in its blade. It serves multiple purposes as a melee weapon and also as a regular cutting tool throughout most of South Asia.

Historical significance

The kukri came to be known to the Western world when the East India Company came into conflict with the growing Gorkha Kingdom, culminating in the Gurkha War of 1814–1816. All Gurkha troops are issued with two kukris, a Service No.1 (ceremonial) and a Service No.2 (exercise); in modern times, members of the Brigade of Gurkhas receive training in their use. The weapon gained fame in the Gurkha War, and its continued use through both World War I and World War II enhanced its reputation among both Allied troops and enemy forces.

The Kukri is the national as well as the religious weapon of the Gurkhas. It is incumbent on a Gurkha to carry it while awake and to place it under the pillow when retiring."- Maharaja Padma Shamser Jangbahadur Rana.

Symbolic representation

Khukuri symbolises the bravery and valour of Gorkha soldiers throughout the world. The blade has traditionally served the role of a basic utility knife for the Gurkhas. The kukri is the national weapon of Nepal, and of Gorkhalis (Indian Nepalis) and consequently is a characteristic weapon of the Nepalese Army. The kukri also sees standard service with various regiments and units within the Indian Army, such as the Assam Rifles, the Kumaon Regiment, the Garhwal Rifles and the various Gorkha regiments. The kukri is the staple weapon of all Gurkha military regiments and units throughout the world, so much so that some English-speakers refer to the weapon as a "Gurkha blade" or "Gurkha knife". The kukri often appears in Nepalese and Indian Gorkha heraldry and is used in many traditional, Hindu-centric rites such as wedding ceremonies, festivals during Durga Puja, Bhai Dooj, etc.

 Association

The association of Kukri and Nepalis has been since the 19th century. To date, in every Nepali household, we will see a Kukri attached to the roots of tradition. The Kukri is used in every major tradition of Nepalis during ceremonies. This iconic and instantly recognisable blade also holds deep spiritual and historical significance for Gurkhas. Khukuri is not just a knife/dagger, but is also a symbol of the Gorkha soldier, with the help of which they paved the way to their fame and the courage they have today. More than being just a revered and effective weapon, however, Kukri is also a peaceful all purpose knife. Khukuri is a versatile working tool and is an indispensable possession of almost every household, especially for those who belong to the Magar, Gurung, Rai, and Limbu ethnic groups. It is a fact that the khukuri symbolises bravery and valour, which is a Nepalese cultural icon.

Changing patterns

Shapes and sizes of khukuri from ancient to modern ones have varied intensely from place to place, person to person, maker to maker and so forth. Khukuris made during the 18th and 19th centuries were much longer and more curved than their modern counterparts. The shapes were often very broad, belly and heavy or very curved, slender and thus very light. Moreover, since all khukuris are totally handmade, even the same type and version tend to differ a bit, leaving the impression of the habitual of the maker and his individuality. The construction of a khukuri is very basic and simple, yet it has style and class of its own.

Own impression

Kukri has been a pride for the Gorkhalis and the Nepalis. During the war times, when soldiers had no access to sophisticated weapons such as guns, rifles, etc., they would carry a dagger called a Kukri and would fight with the help of it. And not only in times of war, but Kukri is used for any other small occasion and since it is a versatile working tool and is an indispensable possession of almost every household of Gorkhalis and Nepalis.

Gorkhalis or Nepalis do not see the Kukri just as a mere knife for working, but we also worship it, especially during any religious ceremony. We first worship the knife and later use it. Kukri has become a very important essential of our tradition. Knowing about the traits a Kukri possess and its impact on us amazed me. Being able to connect with my roots and it's traditions is what makes me and what I am proud of and especially when the Kukri I have with me which was self hand made by my great grandfather and since than we have used that particular Kukri every time, every year, every month and every day, every festivals, ceremonies, rituals, etc. whenever a Kukri is needed. The Kukri, which my great-grandfather had made out of a hobby, who knew would have been used by his three generations, and more to come.