KHUKURI PRIDE OF THE GORKHAS

Khukuri is a martial weapon of the Gorkhas.Khukuri is found in every Gorkha home,loved and respected by every Gorkha. Whether in Gorkha regiments in India or British Gorkha regiments,Khukuri forms an essential part of a weapon for a Gorkha soldier.

Khukuri is made out of raw steel.It is curved according to the purpose it is made,but the weight is made to fall on blade,so that when you strike,the weight of the blade is full on the victim (or object).

Khukuri is kept sheathed in a scabbard.The scabbard is made of thin fine wood encased in leather.The scabbard is also made of medicinal wood (without the leather encasing),and when you slip the scabbard in your waist,the effect of the medicine is supposed to relieve you from colic pains,fever and the like.

The handle of a Khukuri is made of ebony wood,metal of bone.The size is such that when you grip it you feel complete.Above the handle,near the bottom of the blade,the flow of blade is shaped like a half moon.This half moon prevents blood dripping into your hand and thus gives you continious handling of the weapon in a battle.

Always a martial weapon,Khukuri is also a house hold weapon,like in preparing a wild or domestic game,chopping down trees,cutting firewood.Khukuries are made in different sizes to suit your needs,some merely as decorative items to adorn your drawing room hall.

Varieties of Khukuries :

• Sirupate - Sleek and handy,light in handling.Used in battle works,revered by Gorkhas.

• Tarware -Swordlike, used in ceremonial purposes.

• Bhunte -Short and blunt used in ceremonial purposes.

• Katthi -Used in slaying animals (goats and buffaloes) during sacrificial occasions.

Durga is the symbol of "Shakti" (Strength) and an idol for worship.But the Gorkhas in many areas do not use a Durga idol for worship.In place of the Durga-idol,Khukuri is used and worshipped.Khukuri has thus become the symbol of "Shakti" too.