Gurkha facts for kids
Gurkhas are brave soldiers from the mountains of Nepal. They are known for being very courageous, honest, and loyal. Many Gurkhas serve in armies around the world. The most famous group is the Brigade of Gurkhas, which is part of the British Army. They have fought alongside the British for over 200 years. Gurkhas also work in security forces in countries like Brunei, Singapore, and India.
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Who are the Gurkhas?
Gurkhas are people from Nepal, a country high in the Himalayan mountains. They are famous for their strong spirit and fighting skills. Many Gurkhas have joined armies for a long time. They are respected for their bravery and loyalty.
Gurkhas in the British Army
The Brigade of Gurkhas is a special part of the British Army. Gurkha soldiers have served with the British for more than two centuries. They have fought in many wars and conflicts around the world. These include World War I, World War II, and more recent conflicts.
Famous Medals
Gurkha units in the British Army have won many awards for their courage. They have earned 26 Victoria Cross medals. The Victoria Cross is the highest military award for bravery in the United Kingdom. This shows how incredibly brave Gurkha soldiers are.
Their Famous Knife: The Khukuri
Gurkha soldiers are often recognized by their special knife. It is called a khukuri. This knife has a unique curved blade. It is used for many tasks, from fighting to everyday chores. The khukuri is a symbol of the Gurkha soldier.
Gurkhas Around the World
Besides the British Army, Gurkhas also serve in other countries. They work in security forces in places like Brunei and Singapore. The Indian Army also has its own Gurkha regiments. This shows how much their skills and loyalty are valued globally.
Indian Army Gurkhas
The Indian Army has a long history with Gurkha soldiers. Many Gurkhas from Nepal join the Indian Army. They are known for their toughness and dedication. They play an important role in India's defense.
History of the Gurkhas
The Gurkhas first fought against the British in the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816). The British were very impressed by their fighting spirit. After the war, many Gurkhas chose to join the British East India Company's army. This was the start of their long service with the British.
Early Gurkha Regiments
One of the first Gurkha units was the Nusseree Battalion. This group later became known as the 1st Gurkha Rifles. They served bravely in many campaigns. Their reputation for courage grew over time.
Gurkhas in World Wars
Gurkha soldiers played a vital role in both World War I and World War II. They fought bravely in many different parts of the world. Their actions helped the Allies win these major conflicts. Many Gurkhas gave their lives serving their adopted countries.
Images for kids
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Nepali soldiers, by Gustave Le Bon, 1885.
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Monument to the Gurkha Soldier in Horse Guards Avenue, outside the Ministry of Defence, City of Westminster, London.
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Kaji (equivalent to Prime Minister of Gorkha Kingdom) Vamshidhar "Kalu" Pande and Chief of the Gorkhali Army; one of the most highly decorated Gorkhali commanders.
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King of Gorkha Kingdom and Founder of modern Gorkhali Force Maharajadhiraja Prithvi Narayan Shah, (1743-1775) consulting with his first Army Chief Senapati Shivaram Singh Basnyat (d.1747)
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Gurkha soldiers during the Anglo-Nepalese War, 1815.
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The Nusseree Battalion. later known as the 1st Gurkha Rifles, c. 1857.
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Hindu Rao's house shortly after the siege
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Gurkha soldiers (1896). The centre figure wears the dark green dress uniform worn by all Gurkhas in British service, with certain regimental distinctions.
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2nd/5th Royal Gurkha Rifles, North-West Frontier 1923.
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Gurkhas in action with a six-pounder anti-tank gun in Tunisia, 16 March 1943.
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The 2/5th Royal Gurkha Rifles marching through Kure soon after their arrival in Japan in May 1946 as part of the Allied forces of occupation
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Memorial of 10th Princess Mary's Own Gurkha Rifles, Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire
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Princess Mary's Own
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Soldiers from 1st Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles on patrol in Helmand Province in Afghanistan in 2010.
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The soldiers of 5th Gurkha Rifles of the Indian Army takes position during a training exercise.
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A trooper of the Gurkha Contingent of the Singapore Police Force gives directions to a civilian.
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Nick Clegg being presented a Gurkha Hat by a Gurkha veteran during his Maidstone visit, to celebrate the success of their joint campaign for the right to live in the UK, 2009
See also
In Spanish: Gurkha para niños
