I have two Kothimora:
Regimental Kothimora (Honor) Kukri, Pure Silver Scabbard, 10 Blade, 800 gm,
-----Black Velvet - Pure Silver Scabbard, (British 10th Gurkha Rifles)
-----Red Velvet - Pure Silver Scabbard, (British Royal Gurkha Rifles)
I want these also:
Green Velvet - Pure Silver Scabbard, (British 6th/7th Gurkha Rifles)
Blue Velvet - Pure Silver Scabbard, (Queen's Gurkha Signals)
Kothimora means Kukri having silver
mounted scabbard. This is a knife specially made for the retiring Gurkha or British Officers. A retire officer receives this Kukri from his regiments as a memento. The Sheath is exclusively designed using pure silver filigree with top quality velvet background. Crafted by hand here in Nepal, it has 10" long blade and 4.5" long Buffalo horn handle (overall length 15 inches). Its weights about 700 grams.
The history of the knife dates back to mid eighteen hundreds when Kings and Generals of Gorkha possessed kothimora to reflect their rank, status and authority (many historic paintings also show this). People from very high ranks owned kothimora decorated with gold, precious stones, ivory and diamonds sometimes to demonstrate who is in command. Kothimora then were actually known as Kothi-Moda, which in Nepalese literature means molding in and around the chape portion of the scabbard; Kothi - Chape, Moda - to Mould. Since silver turned out to be the best materials amongst the selected and gave a precious and distinct look to the khukuri, it was extensively used; the trend that exists till today. However Kothimodas then were much different than present ones.
Kothimora is also worn as a part of bridegrooms ceremonial dress in Nepalese marriage custom. The bridegroom tucks his khukuri in his sash and keeps it throughout the ceremony. This is done in a belief that the khukuri would safe guard him and protect his new family from evils, sins and bad spirit. The khukuri would also fill in for him in his absence in ritual practices.
The legendary customary in British Gurkhas of giving away souvenir pieces to retiring officers for their loyalty and service is only completed by a Kothimora. Regimental Kothimoras (Kothimora with regimental cap badge mounted on it) are presented to retiring officers to mark his long service, dedication, discipline and also armys satisfaction. The retiring officer would get a Regimental Kothimora from his comrades and fellow-soldiers when he retires. It is not necessary an official military act but an on going Gurkha tradition executed to honor and thank a worthy soldier and also as a tribute from his regiment at the same time.
Kothimora 10 has a 10 inch long blade and thus the name. The case is exclusively designed using pure silver filigree with top quality velvet background. Different beautiful patterns are carved in the scabbard depicting cultural and traditional values using only domestic tools. As mentioned above, it is a very special and old type of kukri widely used for ceremonies and given as gifts to mark ones respect and appreciation.
Kothimora 10 is also a perfect displayable to be with, at your home, office or where you love being most of the time.
The blade is highly polished and handle made from horn handle and polished to complement with its very attractive silver scabbard.
