History of Khukuri : Nepal’s Iconic Blade of the Gurkhas

Khukuri, khukri or kukri as it is spelled is an iconic blade of Nepal that has been wielded for centuries by warriors. It became popular especially after the Second World War when the Gurkhas of Nepal joined the battlefield armed with a khukuri. 

There are many legends surrounding Gurkhas fighting hundreds of enemies with a single khukuri. As such, the khukuri has become a popular symbol of Nepal and its bravery and loyalty. Wish to buy a khukuri? Let’s learn about the Khukuri, its origins and why it is popular in Nepal, and the rest of the world. 

What is a Khukuri? 

Khukuri is a short weapon which belongs to a family of recurved blades. It is a single-edge sword which is usually 12 to 18 inches in length. The unique shape of the khukuri looks like a leaf or a flat S shape with the inner side of the blade being sharp. It usually weighs around 450 to 900 grams.

Traditionally, the khukuri is not just a weapon, it is also an everyday tool used by Nepalese to cut firewood, cut meat and vegetables, clear vegetation and skin animals. 

It is also an important ceremonial ornament as the grooms usually add a khukuri to their wedding attire as a symbol of honour and courage. It also has spiritual importance as it is used as a protection against nightmares and evil spirits. People often place a khukuri under their pillow while sleeping to ward off evil spirits. 

The Origin of Khukuri

Khukuri is said to have originated some 2500 years ago in Nepal. It is unclear where the inspiration for the design of the sword came from, however, historians believe the khukuri is inspired by the Greek Kopis which looks similar in shape. 

The style and handle of the khukuri must have evolved over time to become what it is today. Khukuris were made by the Kami group of people who are traditional blacksmiths. They forged the weapon by hand using traditional tools like hammers to beat and shape the metal. Today, the group still continues this tradition of manufacturing khukuris. 

How Khukuris Became Popular Around the World 

Khukuris have been used as a weapon of choice by Nepalese warriors since time immemorial. The khukuri along with the talwar (sword), dhanu ra baan (bow and arrow) and chaku (dagger) are popular Nepali weapons used during battles. The khukuri however is the perfect shape and size for wielding. The blade is heavier at the tip making its strikes more powerful and deadly.

It became well-known after the British-Gurkha war (1814-1816) where the soldiers of the Gorkha Kingdom defended their country with a khukuri against the more advanced guns of the British. Later, during the First and Second World War, the Gurkha soldiers fought for the British army with a khukuri and embedded fear in the enemies. 

It was very efficient in closeup battle and inflicted deep cuts and wounds with its sharp blades and curved shape. The enemy lines were struck with fear when they heard that the opposing army consisted of Gurkhas and their khukuris. Thus, Gurkhas and Khukuris are synonymous to each other. 

There’s a popular saying that goes, “If a man says he is not afraid of dying, that man is either lying or is a Gurkha”. This saying is enough to showcase the courage and bravery of Gurkhas. 

There are several legends of Gurkha soldiers fighting off numerous enemies with just one khukuri. One such legend is that of Lachhiman Gurung who fought against 200 Japanese soldiers in WWII in Burma. His right arm was blown off in a grenade attack, and his face injured, however, he stood his ground and fended off enemies with his khukuri, killing 31 enemies and surviving. 

How to Identify a Khukuri 

Khukuri is a unique weapon that can be distinguished by its shape and features. Although there are different types of khukuri, their key features are the same. 

Curved Blade: Khukuris have an inward curved blade which provides leverage and momentum for a powerful slash and cut. The curved blade also instills a deep cut when slicing, creating more impact. 

Spine: The spine (bitheu/beet) of the blade is curved, sometimes at a sharp angle while others have a more slender design. The spine is thicker and softer compared to the blade as the edge is for sharpness while the spine absorbs the impact. 

Notch: All authentic khukuris include a notch near the handle called a kaudi. It is carved in the shape of a “3” or a trident. There are many reasons behind this notch. Some say that it is designed like the trident of Lord Shiva or for the symbol of “OM”. Others believe it represents the teat of a cow, symbolizing that a khukuri must never kill a cow, which is a revered animal in Hinduism and is the national animal of Nepal. Practically, the notch helps in draining blood or sap from the blade and prevents it from dripping into the handle making it slippery. 

Handle: The handle is made from high quality wood, animal bone or leather, providing a secure grip. 

Scabbard: The scabbard is made from leather or wood and is decorated with carvings or silver and gems. 

Weight: The weight of the blade should be heavier than the weight of its narrower side. 

Karda and Chakmak: The khukuri usually comes with two smaller blades, the karda and chakmak. The karda is a sharp blade which is used for cutting small things and used like a regular knife. The chakmak is a blunt knife that is used to sharpen the main blade. 

Types of Khukuri in Nepal 

Over time, several variations of the khukuri have come into existence. There are regional variations, most notably the Eastern and Western khukuris of Nepal. The Eastern khukuri is more slender and ornate while the Western khukuri has a wider blade. Other types of khukuri include sirupate, baanspate, budhune, chakkre, Sidhe, kerapate, Chuchche etc. Altogether there are about 60 types of khukuris. 

The khukuri’s price can vary depending on its forging techniques, customization, engraving and purpose. Gurkha soldiers are usually presented with two khukuris, one for battle and another for ceremonial. 

Symbolic and Cultural Importance of a Khukuri 

A khukuri can be found as a household tool in homes of almost all Nepalese. It is not just a weapon, it also holds spiritual and ceremonial importance. The khukuri is used to ward off evil spirits, as such, it is worshipped by some communities, especially during Dashain. It is also used to make animal sacrifices as well. 

It is said that placing a khukuri at home can ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and prosperity. Similarly, during weddings, the groom adorn a khukuri in their wedding attire, both for goodluck and as a symbol of bravery, honour and strength. Carrying a khukuri is a matter of pride for Nepalese, as it symbolizes the brave Gurkhas. 

It is said that when one draws a khukuri, it cannot be put back into its sheath without it tasting blood, meaning that it must taste the blood of the enemy or in other cases, the user must cut their own skin before putting it away. 

Some old khukuris have been passed down through generations by veterans who battled with them during WWI and WWII. As such, it also holds historical importance. 

Where to Buy Khukuri? 

Khukuri is a popular export product of Nepal and it is also bought as a souvenir by travelers in Nepal. Khukuri can be bought in any souvenir store in Nepal, especially in the Thamel area. You can also buy khukuri online at our store, B2BNepal for Nepalese handmade products where we have various types of authentic Nepalese khukuri for sale. You can browse through our collection of khukuris in our Handicraft and Souvenir section or buy in bulk through our B2B sales. 

Nepal’s khukuri is a special symbol of Nepal. It is a famous sword that has gained a reputation around the world. A symbol of bravery, courage and prosperity, it is proudly carried by Gurkha soldiers and other Nepalese alike. If you wish to own a khukuri, check out our website and order one today!