A initial attempt exploring the origin of the Nepalese Kukri/Khukuri knife which has been made fa... more A initial attempt exploring the origin of the Nepalese Kukri/Khukuri knife which has been made famous by the Gurkhas over the last two centuries.
I try to trace it back in history following the main theories that exist. Originally written in 2006-2007.
Khukuri knifes from the 4th (Prince of Wales Own) Gurkha Rifles, 2015
A Over view of Kukri knives (Khukuri) as issued/used/provenanced to the 4th Gurkha Rifles over th... more A Over view of Kukri knives (Khukuri) as issued/used/provenanced to the 4th Gurkha Rifles over the 20th and 19th Century, during the British Raj.
Artefacts plays a important role in understanding history and this is a attempt to identify and document some of the Kukri knives as given and sued by the 4 GR in colonial India, specially over WW1 and WW2.
In this article we will learn more about various Khukuri knifes that have a close relationship to... more In this article we will learn more about various Khukuri knifes that have a close relationship to the 8th Gurkha (Gorkha) Rifles, raised in 1824.
This article examines Khukuri (Kukri) knifes which have a strong connection to the 8th Gurkha Rifles (8 GR) due to being marked, stamped or otherwise directly linked to the regiment, the Shiny eight, which is one of the highest decorated Gurkha regiments, winning four VC´s in less than 60 years. Along with the 5 th GR they won more VC´s than any other Gurkha Regiments.
The article briefly examines the Official Standard Issue Pattern, Battalion Issue and Kothimora Khukuri´s as used from the early days of the regiment till 1947.
We will learn in this article about a man who´s grandfather came to India in the late 18th centur... more We will learn in this article about a man who´s grandfather came to India in the late 18th century, who´s son and later grandchild, who´s descendants would serve in the military till Indian Independence in 1947. Alexander Bertram Lindsay had a unusual military career, serving in the North Western Frontier, the North Eastern Frontier, Russia and in London. He served in the South Wales Borderers, 2nd Prince of Wales´s Own Gurkha Rifles, Indian Army HQ, Secretariat of Imperial Defence, Personal Staff of the Commander in Chief, Army Staff HQ, India Office and the War Office during his 22 years in service. He made a name for himself as a translator and Interpreter of Russian, in a time when the Great Game was reaching its height, until World War1.
This article is about the late Brigadier John Humphrey Montagu (1919-2014) and his Kukri (Khukuri... more This article is about the late Brigadier John Humphrey Montagu (1919-2014) and his Kukri (Khukuri) knifes. I´ve focused on his military career (Part 1) and the two Kukri knifes (Part 2) he acquired during his service in India and the Far East between 1939-1968. John Humphrey Montagu rarely spoke about his military career though he had served almost 30 years in the Army, with the Gurkhas across half the world, with distinction. The late Brigadier Montagu followed his father into the Army and joined the Armed Forces at a time when the sun never set over the British Empire, prior to the 2nd World War (WW2). He was commissioned into the Duke of Cornwall´s Light Infantry in 1939 and during WW2 served in the 8th Gurkha Rifles on the frontiers of India and Burma. After the War and Indian Independence he served a short period in Royal Army Service Corps and 7th Gurkha Rifles, before transferring to 10th Princess Mary`s Own Gurkha Rifles. He saw the British Empire at its height and over the years how it crumbled and former colonies became independent sovereign nations by the time he retired. During 30 years he served in WW2, Indian Independence, Malayan Emergency, Borneo Confrontation and Hong Kong.
Some 200 years ago my forefathers, the Gorkhalis, fought the British in India. A 100 years ago my... more Some 200 years ago my forefathers, the Gorkhalis, fought the British in India. A 100 years ago my great grandfather was commemorated in Delhi and 70 years ago my great uncle in the Gurkha Rifles, received his War medal in India. (New) Delhi, the capital of India has several places that relate to the Gorkhas, Gurkhas and Gorkhalis over the last 200 years. The former Mughal capital is rich in history and when explored more and more places that has a Gurkha (Gorkha) heritage and history show up. The India Gate, New Delhi, India is a War Memorial to the brave Gurkhas and soldiers of the Indian Army.
Built during the British Empire in India, the Dehradun memorial called the “2nd Goorkhas Memorial... more Built during the British Empire in India, the Dehradun memorial called the “2nd Goorkhas Memorial Arch” or “The Centenary Memorial Arch of the 2nd King Edwards VII´s Own Gurkha Rifles” stands as a unique historical record and memorial to one of the most legendary regiments of the world. History and heritage is being lost due to a lack of respect, knowledge and care.
We will here explore the "The Lion Head Kukri," easily recognised by the image of the Lions head ... more We will here explore the "The Lion Head Kukri," easily recognised by the image of the Lions head on the pommel cap, this type of Kukri became one of the most popular of the post-ww2 era. A very loved and hated piece that is one of the most common Kukri knifes on the market as far as "Antiques" are concerned. My aim with this article is to clarify some of the ideas behind the Lion head Kukri. There are too many misconceptions and myths unfortunately while research shows a different truth, reality based on facts. I hope this article will help the reader to learn more and that it is very unlikely that a dying Gurkha soldier gave this kind of a knife away as a gift in WW2.
The Collection highlights briefly the history of the Kukri knife and the Gurkhas, Nepalese and Br... more The Collection highlights briefly the history of the Kukri knife and the Gurkhas, Nepalese and British-Indian History over the last 200 years. Items are not for sale but part of the permanent collection of SirKukri and Gurkha Antiques of V.K. Kunwor. Each Knife is listed with title and a short informative text, in total 42 Kukri knifes.
“The kukri is at the very heart of the tradition and culture of Nepal, and, as a very good friend or deadly foe, it mirrors the duality of human nature and the nature of mankind.”
" the national knife and principal weapon of the Gurkhas of Nepal. It has a heavy, curved, single-edged blade sharp on the concave side. The hilt is usually straight and without guard; occasionally it has a disk guard and pommel like a sword (kora) from the same sharpener. Quite often one, or both, of these knifes have hilts of branching stag-horn. The weight of the blade of the kukri is well towards the point and a tremendous blow can be struck with it with very little muscular exertion. There are well authenticated instances of a Gurkha having split the head of a man and cut well down into his chest with a single blow. It is carried by Gurkhas at all times and used as a jungle and hunting knife as well as for war. The scabbards are often embroidered with quills or decorated with silver or gold chaps."
Located on the southern side of Cologne (Köln), Germany there is a small but beautiful graveyard ... more Located on the southern side of Cologne (Köln), Germany there is a small but beautiful graveyard maintained by the CWGC. There is two Gurkhas from World War 1 commemorated here. They are found outside the main CWGC area along with some Indian Army soldiers and surrounded by a high number of German soldiers.
These two Gurkhas were Prisoner of War and had been held captive by the Kaisers military in World War 1.
We will first examine the history of the 2/8th Gurkha Rifles (2/8 GR) on the Western Front between 1914 to 1915, then have a closer look at the Cemetery where these two brave Gurkhas are commemorated and finally a list of various sites where Gurkhas fighting on the Western Front in 1914-1915 have been commemorated.
The Chattri Memorial is a first of its kind, a truly unique place dedicated to the members of the... more The Chattri Memorial is a first of its kind, a truly unique place dedicated to the members of the Indian Army who fought in World War 1. To my knowledge it is the first place in the UK where Gurkha soldiers were commemorated. My aim with this article is to raise awareness about the two memorials, the Gurkhas and Indian Army soldiers cremated here in WW1. To let this be part of their story and memory, not to be forgotten in the annals of history. Jai Gurkha!
The following paper explores the unique history, tradition and culture of the Gurkhas focusing on... more The following paper explores the unique history, tradition and culture of the Gurkhas focusing on their knife, the Khukuri, often called Kukri. The relationship between the Gurkhas and Khukuri, its use in Gurkha culture, tradition and history. The Khukuri is a essential part of the Gurkhas identity and soul.
King Prithivi Narayan Shah of Nepal instructions of Statehood, 1774 AD, Nuwakot Darbar,Nepal.
Th... more King Prithivi Narayan Shah of Nepal instructions of Statehood, 1774 AD, Nuwakot Darbar,Nepal. The first document on statehood and nation making, a basis for the Shah dynasty and modern Nepal! As Nepal enters the Constitution writing process, federalism and much else a highly needed reading as written by the King and translated by Stiller.
The Kukri (Khukuri) of a Nepalese General during World War 1, the Kukri knife of General Sir Tej ... more The Kukri (Khukuri) of a Nepalese General during World War 1, the Kukri knife of General Sir Tej Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana, General Nepalese Army, World War 1 (1920).
Divisional commander of the Nepalese contingent in India.
The Kukri (Khukuri) Knife and Nepali Arms & Armour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, U... more The Kukri (Khukuri) Knife and Nepali Arms & Armour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA, compared to those shown in George Stone`s Book.
Image and item description from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Original text from George C Stone`s work: “A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor: in All Countries and in All Times (1934).” Includes a short biography about George C Stone and his Weapon collections.
SirKukri /Gurkha Antiques / VK Kunwor
exploring the Kukri, Gurkhas and Himalayan Martial Heritage.
The Kukri knife, also written as Khukuri, Khukri, Khookree, Kookeri, Kukoori, Koorkerie, Kookery,... more The Kukri knife, also written as Khukuri, Khukri, Khookree, Kookeri, Kukoori, Koorkerie, Kookery, Kukery, Koukoori, Khokreis, Cookri, Gurkha Knife and other variations, takes its name from the Nepali word "खुकुरी" . This dagger-knife is today world famous and known as the Symbol of the Gurkhas, National weapon of Nepal and a most excellent knife with a long and ancient history. Ive used the term "Kukri" over the more proper "Khukuri" as it is
probably a wider used word and thus more familiar to the reader. We here explore what has been written regarding the Kukri knife over the past 200 years, from the dawn of modern Nepal, Anglo-Nepal War, The Great Wars and until modern day.
Over the years I have been asked many questions regarding the Kukri / Khukuri knife and here try ... more Over the years I have been asked many questions regarding the Kukri / Khukuri knife and here try to answer some of the most frequent questions asked regarding the Knife of the Gurkhas /Gurkha /Gorkha /Gorkhas /National knife of Nepal.
A Study of a World War 1 Kukri / Khukuri knife belonging to Lt. Cpl William R. Geddes of the Roya... more A Study of a World War 1 Kukri / Khukuri knife belonging to Lt. Cpl William R. Geddes of the Royal West Kent Regiment. .
The focus of this article is firstly to examine some aspects of the Kukri (Khukuri) in relation t... more The focus of this article is firstly to examine some aspects of the Kukri (Khukuri) in relation to Col. Kirkpatrick´s mission to Nepal (Nepaul) in 1793. In doing this I´ll attempt to place it in a historical context and briefly discuss the Kukri`s meaning in Nepal.
given is taken from his work published in 1811.
The Kukri & Kora (Kohara) in Col. Kirkpatrick`s work is the very first illustration of a Kukri knife and the Kora sword, we
have record of and could for the first time in history
be seen in a book. It thus allowed the British public and of course the World at large to gain knowledge about some of the weapons of the hill mean that have since then been strongly associated to Nepal and thue Gurkha/Gorkha soldier (and regiment/brigade).
A initial attempt exploring the origin of the Nepalese Kukri/Khukuri knife which has been made fa... more A initial attempt exploring the origin of the Nepalese Kukri/Khukuri knife which has been made famous by the Gurkhas over the last two centuries.
I try to trace it back in history following the main theories that exist. Originally written in 2006-2007.
Khukuri knifes from the 4th (Prince of Wales Own) Gurkha Rifles, 2015
A Over view of Kukri knives (Khukuri) as issued/used/provenanced to the 4th Gurkha Rifles over th... more A Over view of Kukri knives (Khukuri) as issued/used/provenanced to the 4th Gurkha Rifles over the 20th and 19th Century, during the British Raj.
Artefacts plays a important role in understanding history and this is a attempt to identify and document some of the Kukri knives as given and sued by the 4 GR in colonial India, specially over WW1 and WW2.
In this article we will learn more about various Khukuri knifes that have a close relationship to... more In this article we will learn more about various Khukuri knifes that have a close relationship to the 8th Gurkha (Gorkha) Rifles, raised in 1824.
This article examines Khukuri (Kukri) knifes which have a strong connection to the 8th Gurkha Rifles (8 GR) due to being marked, stamped or otherwise directly linked to the regiment, the Shiny eight, which is one of the highest decorated Gurkha regiments, winning four VC´s in less than 60 years. Along with the 5 th GR they won more VC´s than any other Gurkha Regiments.
The article briefly examines the Official Standard Issue Pattern, Battalion Issue and Kothimora Khukuri´s as used from the early days of the regiment till 1947.
We will learn in this article about a man who´s grandfather came to India in the late 18th centur... more We will learn in this article about a man who´s grandfather came to India in the late 18th century, who´s son and later grandchild, who´s descendants would serve in the military till Indian Independence in 1947. Alexander Bertram Lindsay had a unusual military career, serving in the North Western Frontier, the North Eastern Frontier, Russia and in London. He served in the South Wales Borderers, 2nd Prince of Wales´s Own Gurkha Rifles, Indian Army HQ, Secretariat of Imperial Defence, Personal Staff of the Commander in Chief, Army Staff HQ, India Office and the War Office during his 22 years in service. He made a name for himself as a translator and Interpreter of Russian, in a time when the Great Game was reaching its height, until World War1.
This article is about the late Brigadier John Humphrey Montagu (1919-2014) and his Kukri (Khukuri... more This article is about the late Brigadier John Humphrey Montagu (1919-2014) and his Kukri (Khukuri) knifes. I´ve focused on his military career (Part 1) and the two Kukri knifes (Part 2) he acquired during his service in India and the Far East between 1939-1968. John Humphrey Montagu rarely spoke about his military career though he had served almost 30 years in the Army, with the Gurkhas across half the world, with distinction. The late Brigadier Montagu followed his father into the Army and joined the Armed Forces at a time when the sun never set over the British Empire, prior to the 2nd World War (WW2). He was commissioned into the Duke of Cornwall´s Light Infantry in 1939 and during WW2 served in the 8th Gurkha Rifles on the frontiers of India and Burma. After the War and Indian Independence he served a short period in Royal Army Service Corps and 7th Gurkha Rifles, before transferring to 10th Princess Mary`s Own Gurkha Rifles. He saw the British Empire at its height and over the years how it crumbled and former colonies became independent sovereign nations by the time he retired. During 30 years he served in WW2, Indian Independence, Malayan Emergency, Borneo Confrontation and Hong Kong.
Some 200 years ago my forefathers, the Gorkhalis, fought the British in India. A 100 years ago my... more Some 200 years ago my forefathers, the Gorkhalis, fought the British in India. A 100 years ago my great grandfather was commemorated in Delhi and 70 years ago my great uncle in the Gurkha Rifles, received his War medal in India. (New) Delhi, the capital of India has several places that relate to the Gorkhas, Gurkhas and Gorkhalis over the last 200 years. The former Mughal capital is rich in history and when explored more and more places that has a Gurkha (Gorkha) heritage and history show up. The India Gate, New Delhi, India is a War Memorial to the brave Gurkhas and soldiers of the Indian Army.
Built during the British Empire in India, the Dehradun memorial called the “2nd Goorkhas Memorial... more Built during the British Empire in India, the Dehradun memorial called the “2nd Goorkhas Memorial Arch” or “The Centenary Memorial Arch of the 2nd King Edwards VII´s Own Gurkha Rifles” stands as a unique historical record and memorial to one of the most legendary regiments of the world. History and heritage is being lost due to a lack of respect, knowledge and care.
We will here explore the "The Lion Head Kukri," easily recognised by the image of the Lions head ... more We will here explore the "The Lion Head Kukri," easily recognised by the image of the Lions head on the pommel cap, this type of Kukri became one of the most popular of the post-ww2 era. A very loved and hated piece that is one of the most common Kukri knifes on the market as far as "Antiques" are concerned. My aim with this article is to clarify some of the ideas behind the Lion head Kukri. There are too many misconceptions and myths unfortunately while research shows a different truth, reality based on facts. I hope this article will help the reader to learn more and that it is very unlikely that a dying Gurkha soldier gave this kind of a knife away as a gift in WW2.
The Collection highlights briefly the history of the Kukri knife and the Gurkhas, Nepalese and Br... more The Collection highlights briefly the history of the Kukri knife and the Gurkhas, Nepalese and British-Indian History over the last 200 years. Items are not for sale but part of the permanent collection of SirKukri and Gurkha Antiques of V.K. Kunwor. Each Knife is listed with title and a short informative text, in total 42 Kukri knifes.
“The kukri is at the very heart of the tradition and culture of Nepal, and, as a very good friend or deadly foe, it mirrors the duality of human nature and the nature of mankind.”
" the national knife and principal weapon of the Gurkhas of Nepal. It has a heavy, curved, single-edged blade sharp on the concave side. The hilt is usually straight and without guard; occasionally it has a disk guard and pommel like a sword (kora) from the same sharpener. Quite often one, or both, of these knifes have hilts of branching stag-horn. The weight of the blade of the kukri is well towards the point and a tremendous blow can be struck with it with very little muscular exertion. There are well authenticated instances of a Gurkha having split the head of a man and cut well down into his chest with a single blow. It is carried by Gurkhas at all times and used as a jungle and hunting knife as well as for war. The scabbards are often embroidered with quills or decorated with silver or gold chaps."
Located on the southern side of Cologne (Köln), Germany there is a small but beautiful graveyard ... more Located on the southern side of Cologne (Köln), Germany there is a small but beautiful graveyard maintained by the CWGC. There is two Gurkhas from World War 1 commemorated here. They are found outside the main CWGC area along with some Indian Army soldiers and surrounded by a high number of German soldiers.
These two Gurkhas were Prisoner of War and had been held captive by the Kaisers military in World War 1.
We will first examine the history of the 2/8th Gurkha Rifles (2/8 GR) on the Western Front between 1914 to 1915, then have a closer look at the Cemetery where these two brave Gurkhas are commemorated and finally a list of various sites where Gurkhas fighting on the Western Front in 1914-1915 have been commemorated.
The Chattri Memorial is a first of its kind, a truly unique place dedicated to the members of the... more The Chattri Memorial is a first of its kind, a truly unique place dedicated to the members of the Indian Army who fought in World War 1. To my knowledge it is the first place in the UK where Gurkha soldiers were commemorated. My aim with this article is to raise awareness about the two memorials, the Gurkhas and Indian Army soldiers cremated here in WW1. To let this be part of their story and memory, not to be forgotten in the annals of history. Jai Gurkha!
The following paper explores the unique history, tradition and culture of the Gurkhas focusing on... more The following paper explores the unique history, tradition and culture of the Gurkhas focusing on their knife, the Khukuri, often called Kukri. The relationship between the Gurkhas and Khukuri, its use in Gurkha culture, tradition and history. The Khukuri is a essential part of the Gurkhas identity and soul.
King Prithivi Narayan Shah of Nepal instructions of Statehood, 1774 AD, Nuwakot Darbar,Nepal.
Th... more King Prithivi Narayan Shah of Nepal instructions of Statehood, 1774 AD, Nuwakot Darbar,Nepal. The first document on statehood and nation making, a basis for the Shah dynasty and modern Nepal! As Nepal enters the Constitution writing process, federalism and much else a highly needed reading as written by the King and translated by Stiller.
The Kukri (Khukuri) of a Nepalese General during World War 1, the Kukri knife of General Sir Tej ... more The Kukri (Khukuri) of a Nepalese General during World War 1, the Kukri knife of General Sir Tej Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana, General Nepalese Army, World War 1 (1920).
Divisional commander of the Nepalese contingent in India.
The Kukri (Khukuri) Knife and Nepali Arms & Armour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, U... more The Kukri (Khukuri) Knife and Nepali Arms & Armour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA, compared to those shown in George Stone`s Book.
Image and item description from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Original text from George C Stone`s work: “A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor: in All Countries and in All Times (1934).” Includes a short biography about George C Stone and his Weapon collections.
SirKukri /Gurkha Antiques / VK Kunwor
exploring the Kukri, Gurkhas and Himalayan Martial Heritage.
The Kukri knife, also written as Khukuri, Khukri, Khookree, Kookeri, Kukoori, Koorkerie, Kookery,... more The Kukri knife, also written as Khukuri, Khukri, Khookree, Kookeri, Kukoori, Koorkerie, Kookery, Kukery, Koukoori, Khokreis, Cookri, Gurkha Knife and other variations, takes its name from the Nepali word "खुकुरी" . This dagger-knife is today world famous and known as the Symbol of the Gurkhas, National weapon of Nepal and a most excellent knife with a long and ancient history. Ive used the term "Kukri" over the more proper "Khukuri" as it is
probably a wider used word and thus more familiar to the reader. We here explore what has been written regarding the Kukri knife over the past 200 years, from the dawn of modern Nepal, Anglo-Nepal War, The Great Wars and until modern day.
Over the years I have been asked many questions regarding the Kukri / Khukuri knife and here try ... more Over the years I have been asked many questions regarding the Kukri / Khukuri knife and here try to answer some of the most frequent questions asked regarding the Knife of the Gurkhas /Gurkha /Gorkha /Gorkhas /National knife of Nepal.
A Study of a World War 1 Kukri / Khukuri knife belonging to Lt. Cpl William R. Geddes of the Roya... more A Study of a World War 1 Kukri / Khukuri knife belonging to Lt. Cpl William R. Geddes of the Royal West Kent Regiment. .
The focus of this article is firstly to examine some aspects of the Kukri (Khukuri) in relation t... more The focus of this article is firstly to examine some aspects of the Kukri (Khukuri) in relation to Col. Kirkpatrick´s mission to Nepal (Nepaul) in 1793. In doing this I´ll attempt to place it in a historical context and briefly discuss the Kukri`s meaning in Nepal.
given is taken from his work published in 1811.
The Kukri & Kora (Kohara) in Col. Kirkpatrick`s work is the very first illustration of a Kukri knife and the Kora sword, we
have record of and could for the first time in history
be seen in a book. It thus allowed the British public and of course the World at large to gain knowledge about some of the weapons of the hill mean that have since then been strongly associated to Nepal and thue Gurkha/Gorkha soldier (and regiment/brigade).
Uploads
I try to trace it back in history following the main theories that exist. Originally written in 2006-2007.
Artefacts plays a important role in understanding history and this is a attempt to identify and document some of the Kukri knives as given and sued by the 4 GR in colonial India, specially over WW1 and WW2.
This article examines Khukuri (Kukri) knifes which have a strong connection to the 8th Gurkha Rifles (8 GR) due to being marked, stamped or otherwise directly linked to the regiment, the Shiny eight, which is one of the highest decorated Gurkha regiments, winning four VC´s in less than 60 years. Along with the 5 th GR they won more VC´s than any other Gurkha Regiments.
The article briefly examines the Official Standard Issue Pattern, Battalion Issue and Kothimora Khukuri´s as used from the early days of the regiment till 1947.
John Humphrey Montagu rarely spoke about his military career though he had served almost 30 years in the Army, with the Gurkhas across half the world, with distinction. The late Brigadier Montagu followed his father into the Army and joined the Armed Forces at a time when the sun never set over the British Empire, prior to the 2nd World War (WW2). He was commissioned into the Duke of Cornwall´s Light Infantry in 1939 and during WW2 served in the 8th Gurkha Rifles on the frontiers of India and Burma. After the War and Indian Independence he served a short period in Royal Army Service Corps and 7th Gurkha Rifles, before transferring to 10th Princess Mary`s Own Gurkha Rifles.
He saw the British Empire at its height and over the years how it crumbled and former colonies became independent sovereign nations by the time he retired. During 30 years he served in WW2, Indian Independence, Malayan Emergency, Borneo Confrontation and Hong Kong.
The India Gate, New Delhi, India is a War Memorial to the brave Gurkhas and soldiers of the Indian Army.
Items are not for sale but part of the permanent collection of SirKukri and Gurkha Antiques of V.K. Kunwor.
Each Knife is listed with title and a short informative text, in total 42 Kukri knifes.
“The kukri is at the very heart of the tradition and culture of Nepal, and, as a very good friend or deadly foe, it mirrors the duality of human nature and the nature of mankind.”
Kukri, Khukuri, Cookeri, Kookeri, Khukri, Kukree, Kukrie, Khukari, Gurkha knife.
" the national knife and principal weapon of the Gurkhas of Nepal. It has a heavy, curved, single-edged blade sharp on the concave side. The hilt is usually straight and without guard; occasionally it has a disk guard and pommel like a sword (kora) from the same sharpener. Quite often one, or both, of these knifes have hilts of branching stag-horn. The weight of the blade of the kukri is well towards the point and a tremendous blow can be struck with it with very little muscular exertion. There are well authenticated instances of a Gurkha having split the head of a man and cut well down into his chest with a single blow. It is carried by Gurkhas at all times and used as a jungle and hunting knife as well as for war. The scabbards are often embroidered with quills or decorated with silver or gold chaps."
These two Gurkhas were Prisoner of War and had been held captive by the Kaisers military in World War 1.
We will first examine the history of the 2/8th Gurkha Rifles (2/8 GR) on the Western Front between 1914 to 1915, then have a closer look at the Cemetery where these two brave Gurkhas are commemorated and finally a list of various sites where Gurkhas fighting on the Western Front in 1914-1915 have been commemorated.
The first document on statehood and nation making, a basis for the Shah dynasty and modern Nepal! As Nepal enters the Constitution writing process, federalism and much else a highly needed reading as written by the King and translated by Stiller.
Divisional commander of the Nepalese contingent in India.
Image and item description from the Metropolitan Museum of Art,
Original text from George C Stone`s work:
“A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor: in All Countries and in All Times (1934).”
Includes a short biography about George C Stone and his Weapon collections.
SirKukri /Gurkha Antiques / VK Kunwor
exploring the Kukri, Gurkhas and Himalayan Martial Heritage.
probably a wider used word and thus more familiar to the reader. We here explore what has been written regarding the Kukri knife over the past 200 years, from the dawn of modern Nepal, Anglo-Nepal War, The Great Wars and until modern day.
given is taken from his work published in 1811.
The Kukri & Kora (Kohara) in Col. Kirkpatrick`s work is the very first illustration of a Kukri knife and the Kora sword, we
have record of and could for the first time in history
be seen in a book. It thus allowed the British public and of course the World at large to gain knowledge about some of the weapons of the hill mean that have since then been strongly associated to Nepal and thue Gurkha/Gorkha soldier (and regiment/brigade).
I try to trace it back in history following the main theories that exist. Originally written in 2006-2007.
Artefacts plays a important role in understanding history and this is a attempt to identify and document some of the Kukri knives as given and sued by the 4 GR in colonial India, specially over WW1 and WW2.
This article examines Khukuri (Kukri) knifes which have a strong connection to the 8th Gurkha Rifles (8 GR) due to being marked, stamped or otherwise directly linked to the regiment, the Shiny eight, which is one of the highest decorated Gurkha regiments, winning four VC´s in less than 60 years. Along with the 5 th GR they won more VC´s than any other Gurkha Regiments.
The article briefly examines the Official Standard Issue Pattern, Battalion Issue and Kothimora Khukuri´s as used from the early days of the regiment till 1947.
John Humphrey Montagu rarely spoke about his military career though he had served almost 30 years in the Army, with the Gurkhas across half the world, with distinction. The late Brigadier Montagu followed his father into the Army and joined the Armed Forces at a time when the sun never set over the British Empire, prior to the 2nd World War (WW2). He was commissioned into the Duke of Cornwall´s Light Infantry in 1939 and during WW2 served in the 8th Gurkha Rifles on the frontiers of India and Burma. After the War and Indian Independence he served a short period in Royal Army Service Corps and 7th Gurkha Rifles, before transferring to 10th Princess Mary`s Own Gurkha Rifles.
He saw the British Empire at its height and over the years how it crumbled and former colonies became independent sovereign nations by the time he retired. During 30 years he served in WW2, Indian Independence, Malayan Emergency, Borneo Confrontation and Hong Kong.
The India Gate, New Delhi, India is a War Memorial to the brave Gurkhas and soldiers of the Indian Army.
Items are not for sale but part of the permanent collection of SirKukri and Gurkha Antiques of V.K. Kunwor.
Each Knife is listed with title and a short informative text, in total 42 Kukri knifes.
“The kukri is at the very heart of the tradition and culture of Nepal, and, as a very good friend or deadly foe, it mirrors the duality of human nature and the nature of mankind.”
Kukri, Khukuri, Cookeri, Kookeri, Khukri, Kukree, Kukrie, Khukari, Gurkha knife.
" the national knife and principal weapon of the Gurkhas of Nepal. It has a heavy, curved, single-edged blade sharp on the concave side. The hilt is usually straight and without guard; occasionally it has a disk guard and pommel like a sword (kora) from the same sharpener. Quite often one, or both, of these knifes have hilts of branching stag-horn. The weight of the blade of the kukri is well towards the point and a tremendous blow can be struck with it with very little muscular exertion. There are well authenticated instances of a Gurkha having split the head of a man and cut well down into his chest with a single blow. It is carried by Gurkhas at all times and used as a jungle and hunting knife as well as for war. The scabbards are often embroidered with quills or decorated with silver or gold chaps."
These two Gurkhas were Prisoner of War and had been held captive by the Kaisers military in World War 1.
We will first examine the history of the 2/8th Gurkha Rifles (2/8 GR) on the Western Front between 1914 to 1915, then have a closer look at the Cemetery where these two brave Gurkhas are commemorated and finally a list of various sites where Gurkhas fighting on the Western Front in 1914-1915 have been commemorated.
The first document on statehood and nation making, a basis for the Shah dynasty and modern Nepal! As Nepal enters the Constitution writing process, federalism and much else a highly needed reading as written by the King and translated by Stiller.
Divisional commander of the Nepalese contingent in India.
Image and item description from the Metropolitan Museum of Art,
Original text from George C Stone`s work:
“A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor: in All Countries and in All Times (1934).”
Includes a short biography about George C Stone and his Weapon collections.
SirKukri /Gurkha Antiques / VK Kunwor
exploring the Kukri, Gurkhas and Himalayan Martial Heritage.
probably a wider used word and thus more familiar to the reader. We here explore what has been written regarding the Kukri knife over the past 200 years, from the dawn of modern Nepal, Anglo-Nepal War, The Great Wars and until modern day.
given is taken from his work published in 1811.
The Kukri & Kora (Kohara) in Col. Kirkpatrick`s work is the very first illustration of a Kukri knife and the Kora sword, we
have record of and could for the first time in history
be seen in a book. It thus allowed the British public and of course the World at large to gain knowledge about some of the weapons of the hill mean that have since then been strongly associated to Nepal and thue Gurkha/Gorkha soldier (and regiment/brigade).