Khukuri ? Someone please educate me.

There are other aspects of the khukuri which have significance but nobody knows for sure what the true meanings are. The knife is too old and much of its tradition has been passed own orally and this is subject to a lot of interpretation and corruption. A kami of 400 years ago would probably tell a much different story than a kami of today.

Uncle Bill
 
According to Dr. Maung Gyi, there are several explanations regarding the cho (a.k.a. kowdi, Surya ra Chandra, etc.,)

The British claim that the notch was made to catch or stop an enemy sword from slipping or sliding down to the hand.

An elder from a Bantawa clan in eastern Nepal explained that all tools must have their appropriate sacred symbols (like a rabbits foot) to prevent harm to oneself, honor the gods, and increase strength from the spirits.

The notch also may symbolize the sacred Yoni of the Goddess of War: Kali.

Gurkha officer Jemadur Narabahdur Rai of the 10th Gurkha Rifles (on which Dr. Gyi served) says that the notch helps stop the flow of enemy blood onto the hand, preventing slipping of grip. The blood will drip down at the point of the notch.

Whatever explanation you choose to believe, they offer insight to the long history of the kukri and the Gurkhas.

Tim
http://www.streetpro.com
Street Smart Professional Equipment

PS. Uncle Bill, do you have any 20" Sirupatis in stock? I want one!


[This message has been edited by Arnistador (edited 30 August 1999).]
 
Thanks everyone for all the great info. I watch a show on the History Channel about Gurkhas and it said that the notch might symbolize the sun and moon. Any advice on low price first khukuri?

Thanks agian for all the info

Drac Noroc
 
Kami Sherpa would agree, drac. He says the notch is a symbol for the sun and the moon -- surya ra chandra, symbols of Nepal.

20 inch Sirupati is in stock.

Uncle Bill
 
I've a 16.5" WWII, but when I got the 18" Hanuman with WWII blade something sang to me. In 4 part harmony. I can't justify an 18" WWII wtih a 16.5" on hand, it's almost the same except for that ineffable feeling. The Hanuman is too special to use. Now a Chainpuri handled WWII bladed 18"... good thing they closed down Mustang Ranch. I'd have stood there hours trying to make my mind up as to which first: blonde, brunette, redhead.
 
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