Gurkhas

Gurkhas, Nepalese mercenaries known for their bravery and fighting skills. Gurkha soldiers come from several different ethnic backgrounds within Nepal and have a military tradition dating from the 16th century. Their fame spread throughout the world after they fought the British army in the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816) over Nepal’s southward and Britain’s northward expansion in India. Although the British defeated Nepal, they were so impressed by the Gurkha fighters that they enticed them to enter the British (and subsequently, Indian) army. The Gurkhas, known for carrying razor-sharp curved knives called kukris, have fought in nearly all of the world’s major wars and have earned Britain’s highest service awards, including the Victoria Cross. Since India’s independence in 1947, Gurkha soldiers have served in the British army, the Indian army, the Nepalese army, and United Nations peacekeeping forces. Gurkhas hold a high status in their home country of Nepal and, through their salaries and other awards, contribute significantly to Nepal’s economy. The increasing use of technology in warfare, however, is decreasing the need for fighters such as the Gurkhas. Both Britain and India reduced their recruitment of Gurkha soldiers in the 1990s.