Kukri facts for kids

The kukri or khukuri (Nepali: खुकुरी khukuri) is a special knife mainly used by Nepali speaking Gurkhas in India and Nepal. It has a unique blade that curves inwards, a bit like a machete. People use it as both a useful tool for everyday tasks and as a weapon in South Asia.

What is a Khukuri?

The khukuri is a famous knife known for its curved blade. It's a very important part of the culture and history of the Gurkha people. This knife is not just for fighting; it's also a common tool used for many different jobs.

History and Use

The khukuri has a long history, going back to at least 1810. It has been used by Gurkhas for a very long time. Gurkha soldiers are famous for using this knife in many important battles.

Khukuri in Wars

This special knife was used in many conflicts, including:

• The Anglo-Afghan War
• The Sino-Nepalese War
• The Nepalese–Tibetan War
• The Battle of Nalapani
• The First World War
• The Second World War
• The Falklands War

Even today, Gurkha soldiers carry the khukuri as part of their uniform and equipment. It shows their bravery and tradition.

More Than Just a Weapon

While the khukuri is known as a weapon, it's also a very useful tool for daily life. People use it for:

• Chopping wood
• Clearing paths
• Butchering animals
• Doing farm work

It's a versatile tool that helps people with many different tasks in their homes and outdoors.

Design and Features

A typical khukuri weighs between 450 and 900 grams. It is usually about 40 to 45 centimeters long. The knife has a strong blade, a comfortable handle (called a hilt), and a cover (called a sheath) to keep it safe.

Different Spellings

You might see the name spelled in a few different ways. The spellings kukri, khukri, and kukkri often come from India. However, the original Nepali spelling is khukuri. All these names refer to the same famous knife.

Images for kids

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  Colonel Gambhir Singh Rayamajhi Kshetri, a Gorkhali Commander armed with a Khukuri in his left hand and Talwar on his right.

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  Gorkhali Chief Minister (Kaji) and Army Head Kalu Pande wearing a Khukuri on his chest.

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  A Kukri (Top) with the traditional Karda (middle) and Chakmak (bottom). The Karda and Chakmak are used as a utility knife and a sharpening tool respectively.

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  A Gurkha officer of the Gurkha Contingent, Singapore Police Force patrols around Raffles City during the 117th IOC Session. He wears the distinctively tilted Hat Terrai Gurkha; the kukri can be seen attached to the back of his belt.

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  Gurkhas at kit inspection showing kukri in France during World War I.

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  Kukri knife and scabbard on display at the Imperial War Museum North.

See also

In Spanish: Kukri para niños